London's Gasholder Park: Gentrification and Industrial Heritage
The article reflects on the transformation of industrial wastelands in cities, using the example of London's Gasholder Park near King's Cross. Once a site of decaying brick buildings and techno parties reminiscent of Berlin, the area has undergone rapid gentrification. The gasometers now house luxury apartments priced at around €29,000 per square meter, while surrounding former gas and coal buildings have been converted into an open-air shopping mall. The author, who grew up near Berlin's Schöneberger Gasometer, draws parallels between the two cities' industrial pasts and questions whether gentrification can sometimes be beneficial.
Key facts
- Gasholder Park is located near King's Cross in London.
- The area was once known for techno parties in decaying industrial buildings.
- Gasometers in the area have been converted into luxury apartments.
- Apartment prices are around €29,000 per square meter.
- Former gas and coal buildings are now an open-air shopping mall.
- The author grew up near Berlin's Schöneberger Gasometer.
- The article discusses urban planning post-1945.
- The article questions whether gentrification can be good.
Entities
Locations
- London
- King's Cross
- Berlin
- Schöneberger Gasometer