Discovering the diverse economy of a ‘left-behind’ town

ABSTRACT How should we think about the well-being and associated economic development of areas that are not subject to market pressures for growth? What is the economy of a small town outside such demand pressures like? And what should be the role of local planning in such a context? The paper explores these questions through a case study of Shildon, County Durham in England. It explores the diverse economy of the town, including aspects of the Foundational Economy and the central role of civil society, through an analysis of local planning for business premises, new housebuilding and culture-led regeneration.