The research explores the differences between large and medium-sized cities and develops a typology of medium-sized cities as follows: an industrial city, a gateway city, a heritage or tourism city, a university knowledge city, a city in a large or capital city-region, and a regional services city. The research tests this typology by categorising each of the 56 cities covered in the 'State of the English cities' report then comparing the economic performance of each category. Distinguishing characteristics for each of the typologies are set out. The report identifies structural differences in the economic role and performance of English medium-sized cities and addresses the disparities in economic performance between the English regions.

The cities typology framework was commissioned by the OECD for a presentation at a conference in March 2006. Subsequent research for a master’s dissertation was incorporated and the discussion paper produced to stimulate interest and encourage feedback.

The typology was tested in two ways:

Marked structural differences in the economic role and performance of English medium-sized cities were found which in turn reflect and contribute to differences in the economic performance of English cities. There are potential policy implications for the design of regeneration and regional economic policy at a national level and for the importance of effective collaboration between cities and their regions at the local and regional level.

Centre for Sustainable Urban and Regional Futures, University of Salford
Paul Hildreth

10/10/2006

Paul Hildreth

research

Urban Policy > Economy knowledge & employment

Urban economy