Dynamic neighbourhoods in dynamic urban economies. A comparative research into the extent, significance, and mobility patterns of economic activities in residential neighbourhoods in Dutch cities
Research period: September 1, 2009 – December 31 2012
Economic activities in residential neighbourhoods were once mainly equated with small shops and humble service providers predominantly serving local markets. Given the apparently ever-increasing importance of economies of scale and the growing gap between home and work, these neighbour-based economic activities also tended to be seen as a thing of the past. More recently, it has become clear, however, that this view needs to amended if not rejected. Nowadays, new economic activities are springing up in residential neighbourhoods catering to local as well as non-local markets. These small businesses benefit from the erosion of economies of scale, the ‘post-modern’ fragmentation of demand and the concomitant rise of niche markets, and also from the possibilities (regarding both capacity and connectivity) offered by digital technology. Home-based businesses allow households to combine work, care, and leisure in highly flexible and individually customised ways. Residential neighbourhoods in cities seem to be in an advantageous position as cities offer the critical mass to sustain niche markets, have a wide array of inputs for small businesses, and may provide an attractive environment with amenities and good connectivity in physical and digital terms.
Theoretical Background
This research programme aims at gaining insight into the extent, the significance, and the underlying dynamics of economic activities in urban residential neighbourhoods. The main theoretical point of departure is agglomeration economies which help to explain why economic activities are located in urban environments. In addition, we will use network theories to analyse the linkages between firms/entrepreneurs in urban neighbourthoods.
Problem Statement and Research Questions
We want to invertsigate the extent, significance, and mobility patterns of economic activities in residential neighbourhoods in Dutch cities. From this follows three main questions:
- Which are the quantitative trends in businesses in residential neighbourhoods in terms of numbers of businesses, sectoral distribution, and relocation chains?
- What is the impact of these businesses on these neighbourhoods and the cities in terms of economic growth, employment and social effects?
- Which factors (e.g. the socio-economic composition of the population, the morphology, the relevant regulatory environment in terms of zoning, and the local policies targeted at small businesses) might foster or, on the contrary, discourage the setting-up of businesses and their subsequent development?
Research Design and Methodology
To address these questions, we have opted for a research design, which will allow both diachronic and synchronic comparisons of different matched pairs in five cities: Amsterdam, Dordrecht, Leiden, Utrecht, and Zoetermeer. In this set-up, we have selected three neighbourhoods - poor, median, and well-to-do – in each of the five cities resulting in basic matrix of five by three cases. We have quantitative data on business on the level of postcode areas for each city/neighbourhood. This enables us to construct time series spanning the period from 1994 to 2007. In addition, we will gather more qualitative data to explore the underlying mechanisms. We will also chart the contours of the local regulatory environment and the changes in local policies towards businesses in the five cities. Thus, we will be able to address the main questions of how many, where, and how and why of businesses in residential neighbourhoods.
Deliverables
The output of this research programme will consist of two PhD theses, articles in peer-reviewed international journals, a Dutch language book aimed at an audience of policymakers. In addition, we will organise (international) conferences to discuss and disseminate the results and implications.
Connection between Research and Practice
The research programme will enable us to explicitly assess which (local) policy interventions (spatial, socio-economic, regulatory or otherwise) may improve the chances for businesses in residential neighbourhoods, for keeping them longer, and for enhancing their beneficial impact on their neighbourhoods. As the broad research questions will be operationalised in close collaboration with our local partners.
Projectleader
:Professor Robert Kloosterman, AMIDSt, Universiteit van Amsterdam
Research team
- Emma Folmer (ResMa), AMIDSt/IMES, Universiteit van Amsterdam
- Professor Jan Rath (IMES, Universiteit van Amsterdam)
- Anne Risselada, (Ma), (URU, Universiteit Utrecht)
- Dr Veronique Schutjens, (URU, Universiteit Utrecht)
- Professor Frank van Oort (URU, Universiteit Utrecht)
Urban counterparts
- City of Dordrecht
- City of Leiden
- Municipality of Zoetermeer
- City of Amsterdam
- City of Utrecht
- Housing corporation Mitros
- Chamber of Commerce
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