Abstracts Anthropology

Processus de dynamisation d'un ancien quartier ouvrier : le cas de Limoilou

by Vanessa Paré

This thesis focuses on the different processes of revitalization transforming former working- class neighborhoods in the Limoilou area, more specifically in Lairet, Maizerets and Vieux- Limoilou. These neighborhoods have been undergoing a great deal of change in recent years, whether in terms of the population and businesses moving in, or the projects being developed. Rooted in the theories of political ecology and the anthropology of space, this research aimed to study how this dynamization takes shape and the effects on the residents and their living environment. Three objectives guided the study: to question the transformation of former working-class neighbourhoods and how this transformation is taking place; to reflect on the consequences of the transformations linked to this revitalization on the lifestyle of Limoulois and how these changes affect their daily lives; and finally, to understand the scope of these changes. A total of 15 semi-structured interviews were conducted with residents of the three Limoilou neighbourhoods. The results show that the rapid evolution of Limoilou has caused several concerns for residents, including social concerns (gentrification, immigration, and generational and cultural diversity), economic concerns (access to housing, commercial offer, and poverty), environmental concerns (air quality, pollution, heat islands, and greening of central neighbourhoods), and concerns related to geography, transportation, and security (neighbourhood isolation, road safety, sustainable mobility, and crime). This research also presents the improvements desired by citizens, such as greening, the integration of residents or the improvement of the commercial and real estate offer; the fears regarding the future development, such as the homogenization of the population or the loss of the neighbourhood spirit; and the projects that will emerge in the coming years.