engleski

Dynamics and Aestetics of Urban Change in Post- Socialist Osijek, Croatia

The regional centre of Eastern Croatia, the city of Osijek, is one of examples of shrinkage showing declining trend and the most concerning demographic one. This paper introduces the dynamics and processes of change that have affected urban area of Osijek, defined as functional shrinkage of the Osijek city core since arrival of the new economic and political system. It combines overview on the structures of decision making and quantitative indicators of changes in construction industry. It charts intensive reconstruction and new aesthetic of central public places and degradation of the street areas with the intensive housing emanating from the power of free market. The study is based on data obtained from a review of the literature on shrinking city studies as a platform for critical review. Official documents, statistical censuses, maps, authors’ and historical photos have also been utilised in the field work.

post-socialist city; shrinking; public places; streets

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