Paris Olympics for Saint-Denis? : Between enthusiasm and uncertainty: diverging local perceptionson large-scale urban renewal in the Pleyel neighbourhood

Sammanfattning: This thesis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of neighbourhood changes spurred by urban renewal associated with the Paris 2024 Olympic games in the Pleyel neighbourhood, located in the Northern suburbs of Paris. Drawing upon a theoretical framework that emphasizes the complexities of mega-events and urban transformations, the study addresses two key research questions: (1) How do urban renewal stakeholders envision neighbourhood changes, and (2) What are the perceptions of residents and activists towards ongoing and envisioned neighbourhood transformations? Data was collected through qualitative research, including semi-structured interviews (n=10) and observations, capturing the perspectives of urban renewal stakeholders, residents, and activists. The study contributes to renewal and mega-event literature and explores themes related to Olympic-induced urban renewal, participatory processes, social equity, and sustainability. The findings reveal that the employment of social and environmental discourses by urban renewal stakeholders can lead to depoliticization and the understatement of local agonisms. Divergent perceptions among and within groups highlight the role of individual implications and sense of place. The study also identifies limited participatory practices and potential gentrifying tendencies resulting from state-led housing provisions. The conclusions emphasize the need for meaningful citizen participation, policy improvements, and the critical examination of large-scale urban renewal outcomes.