Economic restructuring and gentrification in the inner city : a case study of Pyrmont Ultimo

This paper describes and analyses research conducted by the authors on the social and physical transformation of an inner-city neighbourhood over the last decade. The suburb is Pyrmont Ultimo in Sydney It is a classic example of major renewal and demographic shifts resulting from urban redevelopment and global economic restructuring. The redevelopment of the area proceeded dramatically and crystallised a novel demographic and physical form for Sydney, which will have a lasting impact on the character of the city. The area and its redevelopment exemplify a new process of gentrification where the emphasis is on convenience and apartment living rather than the restoration of old homes.