Revanchist (sub) urbanism as an ultimatum for social cohesion an analysis with special reference to spatial restructuring in the urban neighbourhood of Dahampura, Kolonnawa

Abstract

This research is based on the concept of urban social sustainability combining the fields of urban planning and architecture with the disciplines of sociology. Cities and urban peripheries have become sites of structural transformation. The ally of the government, and ascending new wealthy and middle classes, and their desire to create an ‘Image’, making suburban spaces attractive and pleasant to live in and invest in results in a “suburban revanchism”. Revanchism focuses on stimulating a strong middle class and making the city safe for corporate investments implementing policies to protect and safeguard this private bubble while developing more desirable living environments by regaining social control. Development policies are adopted as part of the revanchist urban strategy to banish initial residents and to reconquer the city for the capital and middle classes. Contemporary development initiatives of urban growth management which result from such a political transformation, are not compatible with local demand facts. Thus, disciplines of urban planning and architectural developments at mega scales fail to consider activities at the human scale. This study examines the importance of physical planning in promoting a socially cohesive neighbourhood. An inductive research approach is adopted. The results suggest that urban neighbourhoods in Sri Lanka experience an uncoordinated distribution of spatial developments that purely privilege the private and transnational capital with little or no consideration given to the interests, needs, and aspirations of permanent residents. The study recommends planning for ‘socially cohesive neighbourhoods require evidence-based frameworks and encompasses a ‘participatory approach’ which addresses challenges and harnesses the opportunities of urbanization.