Reinventing the City; The Role of Small Scale Enterprise

THIS SHORT REPORT provides a summary of a wide range of literature concerned with micro-enterprises in Southern towns and cities. The discussion begins with some questions of definition, a synopsis of the major issues to be considered and a description of the text that follows. Throughout the text, the author draws on illustrations and quotes from different publications in order to assist with an understanding of the issues. A French summary is shortly to be made available by Cida. A list of key points at the end of each chapter increases the value of the report as a teaching guide.

Chapter 2 reviews issues relating to small enterprises and employment. The discussion includes a consideration of home-based entrepreneurs, community-based workspaces and transportation issues, as well as the relationship between urban and rural entrepreneurial activities, housing standards and the role of government. Later sub-sections consider environmental and occupational health issues.

Chapter 3 considers change and innovation in local enterprises, with a specific focus on measures to improve opportunities. The discussion examines participation of the workforce, including women. It also looks at how enterprises are thought to grow and develop and what can be done to assist in this process. Separate sub-sections look at the contribution of local government, NGOs, regulatory systems, small business development and financing.

Chapter 4 discusses how design and planning strategies can assist in small enterprise development. The discussion considers transportation, home-based enterprises and neighbourhood plans. Chapter 5 turns to the environmental and social impacts of small enterprises and how these might be reduced, with ideas from around the world. A brief concluding chapter precedes the reference list of over 120 publications.