Cities, regions and privatised utilities - Introduction

Utility networks are physically embedded in places and they also operate wi thin a regulated environment which imposes obligations on them. Within this framework they need to demonstrate commercial success which is directly re lated to new management strategies that have profound implications for the economic social and environmental performance of localities and regions. Pr ivatisation and liberalisation have heralded a movement from relatively uni form service provision to a utility patchwork with increased variations in tariffs, and styles of service provision. Realisation amongst urban studies and policy makers communities that utility strategies raise important issu es for urban and regional development has been slow to emerge. But this is now rapidly changing. Voluntary and community groups and charities have att empted to ensure that low income households gain access to affordable water , heat, light and communication services. Economic development agencies hav e begun to realise that utilities can act as powerful allies for attracting inward investment. More slowly, they are turning attention to the implicat ions of take-overs and job losses. Environmental groups have recognised the benefits of policies to cut demand and are working with utility companies on energy and water saving strategies. This paper explores the socio-spatia l implications of emerging utility strategies within contemporary UK cities . (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.