New Publication: Understanding and Responding to Neighbourhood Decline and Renewal

September 9, 2008

Prepared by Nicole Chaland (CCEDNet) and Lorenzo Magzul of the Canadian Community Economic Development Network for the Canadian Housing and Renewal Association

Within a CED approach, housing initiatives can strengthen neighbourhoods by rehabilitating or adding to housing stock, while also contributing to social inclusion and cohesion, social capital, employment opportunities, access to services and an improved quality of life for residents. The active participation of residents in all aspects of the design and implementation of a housing strategy for a neighbourhood renewal ensures that the initiative responds to, and is suitable to, local situations. Importantly, with its focus on redirecting economic and social benefits to community members, CED can play an important role in protecting neighbourhoods and residents from the unintended negative consequences of gentrification.

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