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The author examines the relationship between transport investment and urban regeneration in an English provincial city. On the whole transport objectives and policy initiatives have not been addressed, in urban policy effected by successive governments since 1977. In part as a consequence, there has been a marked dearth of empirically based intraurban research in which that nexus between transport infrastructure and social and economic renewal has been explored. In the early 1990s, Sheffield proved to be an especially interesting laboratory within which to examine this issue because of the construction of a new light rail-transit system, the South Yorkshire Supertram (SYS), and a substantial programme of new and improved roads. During the period 1992 to 1996, the research team undertook 'before-and-after' surveys of the effects of the SYS and enhanced road provision on five elements of urban regeneration: image, property values, land use, business (relocation, and labour mobility. New investment had only a relatively limited impact on regeneration and, where effects could be identified, enhanced road investment proved significantly more beneficial than did the SYS. However, the policy environment within which the SYS was implemented was never likely to maximise regeneration, primarily because of the lack of integration across regeneration agencies and transport providers.

England has witnessed more than a decade of formal urban policy effected by Conservative administrations elected in 1979, 1983, and 1987. Most initiatives have fallen into one of three categories: Those designed to improve coordination; innovations in liberalisation; and urban development programmes. These initiatives can collectively be evaluated within a number of parameters. Central government has argued that urban policy is a coordinated, adequate, efficient, and consensual approach to difficulties faced by the older conurbations. Evidence from Parliament, academics, practitioners, and lobbyists suggests, however, that it remains an ill-coordinated, limited, inefficient, and sectorally divisive policy. Other interpretations rooted in concepts such as privatisation and accentuated control have greater validity in explaining British urban policy.

Evaluation of inner city initiatives implemented by the Department of Employment and Department of the Environment post 1979 can be undertaken at 3 levels. An effective policy towards the older urban cores will require modifications at all 3 levels. (Abstract amended)

The Rural Development Commission (RDC) operates the Redundant Building Grant (RBG) which is designed to bring redundant buildings in certain rural areas into commercial activity. In this paper a recent evaluation of the grant is outlined. At the national level RDC data can be used to describe the key characteristics of the grant. This evaluation is primarily based on data obtained from more than 400 applicants in nine counties. This information is employed to assess RBG within three parameters; the property market; economic consequences; and performance impact measures. Policy issues are raised in relation to the specificity of RBG and deadweight.

Attempts to remedy the deficiency in detailed empirical evaluation in part through an examination of the evolution of, and constraints and tensions operating upon, statutory land use planning within an older industrialised area. (JLN)