Forum Groningen: A Center for All?

Rick MOGEZOMP

Master's thesis

Analyzing Stakeholder Intentions in Culture-Led Urban Regeneration in the Northern Netherlands

Forum Groningen: A Center for All? Understanding Culture-Led Urban Regeneration Dynamics in Northern Netherlands

Abstract:

This thesis explores the dynamics of culture-led urban regeneration (CLUR) in the context of Forum Groningen, a multifaceted cultural center in the Northern Netherlands. Opened in 2019, it offers a blend of traditional public functions with more commercial ones. It is part of the broader redevelopment effort of the Oostzijde (East Side) of Groningen's main square, the Grote Markt. This study investigates the intentions of key stakeholders involved in the development and operation of Forum and examines how these intentions align with or challenge the globally dominant paradigm among urban planners, Richard Florida's Creative Class Paradigm (CCP). By situating Forum within broader European trends of urban redevelopment, this thesis underscores the challenges and opportunities faced by medium-sized European cities. This thesis employs a qualitative mixed-methods approach, including semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and an online survey, offering critical reflections on the inclusivity and exclusivity of the Oostzijde regeneration scheme. Findings indicate a complex interplay between economic objectives and social inclusivity, revealing inherent tensions in the Oostzijde project. Furthermore, they underscore the need for more socially sustainable urban planning practices across Europe, particularly in the context of CLUR projects.

Abstract:

This thesis explores the dynamics of culture-led urban regeneration (CLUR) in the context of Forum Groningen, a multifaceted cultural center in the Northern Netherlands. Opened in 2019, it offers a blend of traditional public functions with more commercial ones. It is part of the broader redevelopment effort of the Oostzijde (East Side) of Groningen's main square, the Grote Markt. This study investigates the intentions of key stakeholders involved in the development and operation of Forum and examines how these intentions align with or challenge the globally dominant paradigm among urban planners, Richard Florida's Creative Class Paradigm (CCP). By situating Forum within broader European trends of urban redevelopment, this thesis underscores the challenges and opportunities faced by medium-sized European cities. This thesis employs a qualitative mixed-methods approach, including semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and an online survey, offering critical reflections on the inclusivity and exclusivity of the Oostzijde regeneration scheme. Findings indicate a complex interplay between economic objectives and social inclusivity, revealing inherent tensions in the Oostzijde project. Furthermore, they underscore the need for more socially sustainable urban planning practices across Europe, particularly in the context of CLUR projects.

Keywords

Creative class, culture-led urban regeneration, Richard Florida, Forum Groningen, living room, social sustainability, urban redevelopment, entrepreneurial urbanism, stakeholder intentions, inclusivity, exclusivity

Language used: Czech

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 3. 6. 2024

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: Mgr. Jitka Kohoutová, Ph.D.

Palacký University Olomouc

Faculty of Arts

Master programme / field:
Euroculture / Euroculture