The Problem With Gentrification

Written by Mait Pittea | Edited by Amy Jain, Wasinee Siriboonlamom (Dow) | Designed by Akkarasorn Opilan (Ang-Ang), Sanisa Kongsiri (Kym)

What is gentrification?

Gentrification is the process of a lower income urban area being changed by wealthier people moving in, and ‘regenerating’ the area. This often forces locals out of their homes or being unable to sustain their businesses.

The term was coined by British sociologist Ruth Glass in 1964 to describe the flood of the middle class displacing lower class workers in north London.

‘Once this process of 'gentrification' starts in a district it goes on rapidly until all or most of the working class occupiers are displaced and the whole social social character of the district is changed’.

Gentrification isn’t confined to the UK however, it is a global problem.

It starts with new housing or facilities being built.

The ‘character’ of an area may attract higher-income folks (think boho or hipster vibes). This in turn drives rent prices up as more and more people move in.

Those with lower income, who are the ones who need housing, are no longer able to buy or rent there. Bigger chains begin to open up, and fewer people buy from local businesses, which begin to lose money and often end up closing.

Regenerating areas is not a bad thing though!

Many areas require better infrastructure and facilities, as lower income areas tend to be swept to the side when it comes to improving neighbourhoods (just think about how sleek and shiny and modern richer areas always seem to be; they undergo regular revamps).

Gentrification exposes the wider societal issue of lower income people being treated as an afterthought.

It massively impacts POC much more than white people

POC often make up the original majority of the neighbourhoods undergoing gentrification. Their culture may be destroyed, appropriated or objectified for profit - an inherently racist practice.

It increases the gap between the richest and poorest

It perpetuates the idea that housing is a commodity and not a basic right. Housing should be affordable and accessible to all.

An example

Istanbul, Turkey - large, historic family homes that once made up fashionable neighbourhoods in the city centre were transformed into apartments.

High rise offices and hotels grace the skyline, and yet, are only for the rich. The majority live in squatter settlements on the outskirts of the city, with poor access to sanitation, electricity and water; but even these areas are being torn down to make space for more skyscrapers.

What can I do to help?

Support local businesses! Especially if you begin to notice bigger chains operating nearby.

If there are plans to build new high rise offices at the expense of tearing down cultural buildings find and sign petitions! Write to your local politicians!