Responses to Altered Landscapes in an Ex-Industrial Textile Community
Document information
| Author | LJ Taylor |
| School | Leeds Beckett University |
| Year of publication | 2019 |
| Place | West Yorkshire |
| Document type | Article |
| Language | English |
| Number of pages | 40 |
| Format | |
| Size | 1.34 MB |
- ex-industrial communities
- spatial change
- nostalgia and memory
Summary
I. Introduction to Altered Landscapes
The article explores the responses of a community to the altered landscapes resulting from the decline of the Carpetmakers factory in West Yorkshire. The narrative begins with the historical significance of Carpetmakers, a once-thriving manufacturer of carpets, which played a central role in the community's identity. The closure of the factory and subsequent demolition of the Carpet Mill in 2002 left a profound void, both physically and emotionally. The author raises critical questions about the subjective consequences of such changes, particularly regarding the affective ties that bind community members. The research employs sensuous ethnographic mobile methods to gather insights from former employees and local residents, revealing a tapestry of nostalgic memories and emotional trauma associated with the loss of their industrial heritage. The findings underscore the importance of understanding how spatial change impacts community dynamics and individual identities.
1.1 Historical Context
The historical context of Carpetmakers is essential to understanding the community's current state. Established in the late 1800s, the factory was a cornerstone of local employment and social life. The article highlights how the factory's decline mirrored broader economic shifts, leading to a loss of communal being-ness. The author notes that the demolition process not only erased physical structures but also dismantled the social fabric that had sustained the community. The emotional responses documented in the research reflect a deep-seated connection to the past, emphasizing the need for an embodied analysis of how individuals interact with their changing environment.
II. Emotional and Social Impacts
The emotional and social impacts of the demolition are significant themes in the article. Respondents express feelings of loss and grief associated with the disappearance of familiar landscapes. The research reveals that the decline in social structures has made it challenging for aging ex-workers to forge connections with newcomers. The article discusses how the erasure of architectural pasts contributes to a sense of dislocation and alienation among residents. The author emphasizes the importance of affective bonds in maintaining community cohesion, suggesting that the loss of physical spaces has profound implications for social relationships. The findings highlight the necessity of addressing these emotional dimensions in discussions about urban renewal and community resilience.
2.1 Coping Strategies
In examining coping strategies, the article references Walkerdine's work on trauma and the concept of a containing skin. This metaphor illustrates how communities seek to maintain their identity amidst loss. The research indicates that individuals often rely on nostalgic memories and shared experiences to navigate their altered realities. The author argues that understanding these coping mechanisms is crucial for developing effective community support systems. By recognizing the emotional landscape of ex-industrial communities, stakeholders can better address the needs of residents facing similar challenges in other contexts.
III. Implications for Urban Studies
The implications of this research extend beyond the specific case of Carpetmakers. The article contributes to the broader field of urban studies by highlighting the significance of affective ties in shaping community responses to spatial change. The findings suggest that urban planners and policymakers must consider the emotional and social dimensions of community identity when designing interventions in post-industrial landscapes. The research advocates for a more nuanced understanding of how demolition and redevelopment affect local populations, urging a shift towards inclusive practices that honor the historical and emotional contexts of affected communities.
3.1 Future Research Directions
Future research should explore the long-term effects of industrial decline on community identity and cohesion. Comparative studies across different ex-industrial regions could provide valuable insights into common challenges and successful coping strategies. Additionally, interdisciplinary approaches that integrate sociology, psychology, and urban planning may yield a more comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding altered landscapes. The article serves as a call to action for researchers and practitioners to engage with the lived experiences of communities navigating the aftermath of industrial change.
Document reference
- Landscapes of Loss: Responses to Altered Landscapes in an Ex- Industrial textile Community (Taylor, LJ)
- Psychoanalytic theories of affect (Walkerdine, 2010)
- Psychoanalytic theories of affect (Walkerdine, 2012)
- The importance of psychic holding in parent/child relations (Bick, 1968)
- The decline of Carpetmakers (Local press archives)