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THE DENSITY DIALECTIC: Between Hard and Gentle Densification in London

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  • Victoria Habermehl
  • Colin McFarlane

Abstract

Density is critical to cities, but how might we conceive and research its role in urban development? We argue that a conceptualization of the ‘density dialectic’ offers a productive response. Drawing on research on urban development in Tower Hamlets (London's densest borough), we identify the tensions and contradictions of current densification approaches. A dialectical approach illuminates those tensions, examines the range of actors, processes and social, economic and environmental concerns that become enrolled, and identifies how densification operates to accommodate its changing relations and contradictions. In a context of rapid and intense urban development, we draw on interviews with planners to show how ‘gentle’ and ‘hard’ visions of density connect, conflate and collide as the borough looks to meet challenging housing targets alongside social and environmental objectives.

Suggested Citation

  • Victoria Habermehl & Colin McFarlane, 2025. "THE DENSITY DIALECTIC: Between Hard and Gentle Densification in London," International Journal of Urban and Regional Research, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 49(3), pages 569-586, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:ijurrs:v:49:y:2025:i:3:p:569-586
    DOI: 10.1111/1468-2427.13319
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jennifer Robinson & Katia Attuyer, 2021. "Extracting Value, London Style: Revisiting the Role of the State in Urban Development," International Journal of Urban and Regional Research, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 45(2), pages 303-331, March.
    2. Ahlfeldt, Gabriel M. & Pietrostefani, Elisabetta, 2019. "The economic effects of density: A synthesis," Journal of Urban Economics, Elsevier, vol. 111(C), pages 93-107.
    3. Lucía Cerrada Morato, 2022. "Opportunities and Challenges of Municipal Planning in Shaping Vertical Neighbourhoods in Greater London," Urban Planning, Cogitatio Press, vol. 7(4), pages 267-283.
    4. Lucía Cerrada Morato, 2022. "Opportunities and Challenges of Municipal Planning in Shaping Vertical Neighbourhoods in Greater London," Urban Planning, Cogitatio Press, vol. 7(4), pages 267-283.
    5. Hung-Ying Chen & Colin McFarlane & Priyam Tripathy, 2024. "Density and pandemic urbanism: Exposure and networked density in Manila and Taipei," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 61(8), pages 1526-1544, June.
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