The Role of Public Space in Urban Renewal Strategies in Rotterdam and Dublin

Abstract

Urban entrepreneurialism has been well investigated, but few publications focus directly upon the role of urban public space in renewal strategies associated with such. Although generally acknowledged as important, public space is often seen as supportive rather than a driving force of urban redevelopment. We compare two cases, Rotterdam and Dublin, in which, in contrast, public space was regarded as essential to urban renewal. We show how municipalities have been active in improving public space with a view to attracting private investment. Additionally, these cases underscore the importance of the local context in examining entrepreneurial planning agendas in different cities.