What is culture-led regeneration and how can it shape the identity of a place – be it a city or a whole country?

Whether the intention is to build their own identity or renew a decadent image, cities around the world are increasingly using culture to brand (or re-brand) themselves: large capitals are being invested in culture, and entire cultural districts are currently under development.

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Why and where is this happening? What are the socio-economic implications of these projects? 

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The examples chosen are cities which, without having an established reputation as vibrant cultural centers, have attempted to improve their international profile and rejuvenate their economy by investing in the construction of new cultural facilities in order to rebrand themselves as cultural hubs. 

My papers consider the examples of Bilbao, Glasgow, NewcastleGateshead, Singapore, Shanghai and Abu Dhabi.