Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts covered in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book assess the theory and practice of urban transformation in different geographic and socio-political contexts and, in doing so, offers insight into both risk and reward as local communities and public authorities creatively address the challenge of building vital and sustainable urban environments. It explores the diverse ways in which urban transformation has impacted people and place within different contexts. The book places greater weight on historical context in order to understand the dynamics drive contemporary, the demands, needs and rationales underlying change. It focuses on the involvement of artists and other creative actors in the intensive regeneration of Glasgow's post-industrial East End. The book examines place-making and community from the perspective of ethnic retailing across five municipalities in Toronto's metropolitan area.