ABSTRACT
After 2010, however, the scope for this kind of cultural planning was drastically reduced
as a new phase was entered, a phase of austerity. Investing in cultural amenities still makes
sense as issues of quality of place and its relationship with high-skilled workers are still
relevant. Moreover, EU policy rules preclude many other growth-stimulating policies
such as direct subsidies to firms. The effects of investments in culture will not, in addition,
easily leak out of the region. In addition, one can point to the fact that, in contrast to invest-
ments in the transportation infrastructure or in prestigious office parks, spending money on
culture can often count on much sympathy in local communities (and, therefore, among
voters). What, then, is the scope for cultural planning in age of austerity?
