Impact of urban regeneration on the socio-economic activation of the Old Town in Bielsko-Biała

Abstract

The author paid attention to the medieval part of Bielsko-Biała City, which for decades had been practically neglected and abandoned. The constantly growing problems of technical, economic and social degradation of this area were analysed. In the mid-1990s attempts were made to regenerate the city historic core and to restore its proper position and rank, which it should occupy in the minds of locals and tourists. Presenter in the paper are infrastructural, social and economic changes, which took place within this area as a result of the revitalisation process. The objectives of this process have been highlighted, as well as the renovation of buildings. Social problems affecting the residents have been indicated and completed projects improving their situation have also been discussed. The changes of the service function occurring thanks to the process of revitalisation have been described. The growth of the number of service units showed a positive effect of the regeneration, improving the economic situation of the discussed area. The pace of changes is intense. Every year the number of economic entities increases and most of them are located in the buildings and quarters subjected to renovation. Nevertheless, part of this activity is observed out of Bielsko’s Old Town, being replaced by the catering and entertainment services.