Tracing complex urban transformations in Germany, Switzerland and Austria using trajectory-based qualitative comparative analysis (TJ-QCA)

The re-development of abandoned industrial areas and city cores characterizes the transition from industrial to post-industrial societies in Western Europe. Shorter-term and project-based urban programs, like the re-developments of waterfronts and station areas, emerged as more sui in response to the consequences of economic, demographic, political and cultural change than long-term, top-down spatial planning. Notably, processes and outcomes of strategic spatial planning vary across European cities and may display unique characteristics. This study compares eleven urban transformations in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland to shed light on the degree to which these programmatic urban transformations have been successful in shifting the urban fabric from an industrial to a post-industrial state. We examine the combinations of factors that, over time, have contributed to a qualitative urban change. Using primary and secondary sources, we perform a Trajectory-Based Qualitative Comparative Analysis (TJ-QCA) to identify recipes for successful urban transitions. Results show that there are two main planning recipes associated with successful urban transformations: either a combination of a high strategic character of the project with a leading role of public actors, or a combination of a high strategic character with brownfield redevelopment. •Compares urban transformations in Germany, Austria and Switzerland to identify under what conditions transformations become successful.•Finds that either a combination of a high strategic character of the project with a leading role of public actors, or a combination of a high strategic character with brownfield redevelopment, are associated with success.•Uses Trajectory-based Qualitative Comparative Analysis, which is a methodological innovation in urban studies.