The city as palimpsest to redefine the role of architectural continuity in re-establishing urban identity in post-industrial landscapes

Abstract

This study reflects on some of the existing research on identifying the city as a palimpsest but through the role of architectural continuity. This is mainly argued as a way to re-establish urban identity in post-industrial urban landscapes and help to reverse the decline of such communities/areas/sites. The paper utilises two case study examples to discuss this important topic in detail. The first case study is an already developed site in Germany, and the second is the one we believe requires immediate and considerate attention in the UK. This research study is an endeavour to strengthen and clarify critical positions toward the ongoing literature, reflecting on an example of a derelict area in the city of Nottingham, and as such should not be viewed as an attempt to provide general, wider-reaching practical solutions to the question of urban identity. Instead, it is the aim to explore, through a literature review and selected case studies, the potentials in converting post-industrial landscapes into publicly accessible spaces and particularly what role this can play in re-establishing an urban identity in the area. The findings from this study contribute to extended research that values the role of architectural continuity and urban identity in post-industrial urban landscapes. In doing so, we believe the city should be recognised and valued as a palimpsest, through which it can provide an opportunity to regenerate its abandoned and derelict areas to enhance community values, pride and growth.