Dockland rejuvenation as a new city focus

Summary Each city is a unique blend of the economic, social and cultural experiences of succeeding generations of its citizens, and the skill of the planner is to express these and adapt them to the changing circumstances which history inevitably imposes. The City of Bristol had a long and important association with maritime affairs, and when its central harbour and dock facilities became defunct, the problem facing the Council was not merely one of economic development; it was essentially a crisis of identity, of purpose and of direction.The choice made by the City was the subject of enormous political controversy which involved the citizens in decisions about their future to a greater extent than any previous strategic issue; it was essentially to retain the water areas and to exploit the opportunities for leisure-orientated business and residential pursuits. This article describes how decisions were reached and the kind of technical and social constraints which were encountered. Conclusions are drawn as to the importance of the process by which decisions are made. Finally consideration is given to the practical imperatives which face those who wish to broaden the effect and impact of the City Docks experience on the rest of the City.Michael Somorjay is Deputy City Planning Officer for Bristol City Council.