ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the underlying philosophies of urban policy from 1991 to 1997, focusing on multi-sectoral partnerships, competition between places for urban funds and the rise of sustainability in urban policy. The emphasis of policy shifted somewhat in the 1990s with the emergence of multi-sectoral partnerships which reintegrated local authorities and communities, competitive bidding for urban funds, and the rise of sustainability concerns within a more ‘holistic’ urban policy. City Challenge appears to have developed out of a general review of urban initiatives following the return of Michael Heseltine to the Department of the Environment in 1990. The key elements of City Challenge are reflected in the experience of Bristol, namely collaboration within localities and the leading role allocated to local authorities, and competition between urban areas. Urban regeneration schemes that were funded by Single Regeneration Budget had the option of being thematic, rather than spatial, which focused on the needs of particular groups.
