Urban regeneration of historic towns: Regeneration strategies for Pauni, India

Abstract

The urban regeneration of historic towns is a process of inducing life into decaying assets and developing future potential. These assets and potentials may consist of built heritage, traditional industries or cultural resources. The research is a study of an historic town in central India called Pauni which is famous for its historic buildings and traditional economic industry. However, at present these assets are degenerating due to industrialization. Between the 14th and 16th centuries, the town achieved prosperity because of location, linkages, political patronage and existing economic skills. Later the town could not achieve growth due to a lack of economic potential and out migration of skilled workers. Also the inadequate development polices affected the town's growth and with the passage of time it retained the historic settlement pattern. The town today has a strong potential for tourism as there are numerous historic buildings. The town economy is dominated by household industry of skilled master craftsmen involved in producing fabric from silk and cotton. But at present, this traditional heritage and the economic potential of the town are struggling to survive. The research looks into the town's assets and potentials that could be a base for development and sustainability.