Politics, governance and the shaping of Smethwick since 1945
My MPhil covers the recent history of Smethwick. Maddison has noted that, ‘Smethwick developed as an important manufacturing centre wedged strategically between Birmingham and the Black Country having strong links with both but not truly belonging to either.’ This is true, but I am struck by the way Smethwick also continues to be a significant and surprising place.
Smethwick has certainly undergone fundamental social, economic and physical change in recent decades, but the mixed impact of public policy in this complex place is also an important factor. My particular thesis is therefore a study of politics, governance and the shaping of Smethwick since 1945. The findings will be relevant to future policy development and public-community activity in other urban areas.
I gained a political science degree from Birmingham University 26 years ago and work in the field of urban regeneration, housing and community participation – click here to see my LinkedIn profile. And my lifelong passion for history rests alongside a bond with Smethwick and its future. I am a member of the Smethwick Local History Society, Smethwick Heritage Centre Trust and Warley Woods Community Trust. All this animates my current research, which is kindly supervised by Dr Malcolm Dick, the Centre Director.