skrapningen

Skrapningen is a type of urban renewal project that was implemented in Sweden in the 1960s and 1970s. The term is derived from the Swedish words "räfsa," which means "to scrape," and "-ningen," which is a suffix indicating a process or action. The project's primary goal was to modernize and redevelop existing urban areas, particularly those characterized by narrow, crooked streets and old buildings.

Skrapningen involved the demolition of historic buildings, often in a mix of protection and neglect, followed by the construction of new, modern residential and commercial developments. The project was often accompanied by freeway construction and car-oriented infrastructure, leading to a marked decline in pedestrian-friendliness and community cohesion.

While proponents of Skrapningen argued that it would improve the quality of life for residents and promote economic development, many critics saw it as a form of urban clearance, displacing low-income and working-class residents and erasing cultural and historical heritage. The project was often criticized for its lack of democratic decision-making processes, as many residents were not consulted or involved in the planning and execution of the project.

Skrapningen was implemented in many Swedish cities, including Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. Today, some of the areas affected by the project are experiencing gentrification, with new developments and infrastructure being built in areas previously dominated by small businesses and low-income residents. The legacy of Skrapningen continues to shape urban planning debates in Sweden, with ongoing discussions about the role of preservation and community involvement in urban renewal projects.