You're right: the outcomes of this sort of developments vary widely. In many cases (including, as far as I can tell, my example), they are now inhabited by older people who are quite happy with them.
i just believe the evidence points at high-density mixed commercial/residential housing to be the dominant option. My second example, for example, is from Berlin's historically poor neighbourhood, with unemployment today still at 13% (3 times national average). Yet it's the place where everyone wants to life.
Your example, of London requiring social housing as part of new developments, is the kind of policy that's made with an eye towards such observations. It's not just aimed at creating affordable housing, but something that will benefit everyone living there.
i just believe the evidence points at high-density mixed commercial/residential housing to be the dominant option. My second example, for example, is from Berlin's historically poor neighbourhood, with unemployment today still at 13% (3 times national average). Yet it's the place where everyone wants to life.
Your example, of London requiring social housing as part of new developments, is the kind of policy that's made with an eye towards such observations. It's not just aimed at creating affordable housing, but something that will benefit everyone living there.