Enabling and constraining conditions for boundary-spanning in community-led urban regeneration: A conceptual model

Community-led urban regeneration processes are increasingly popular, both in developing countries and in Western welfare states. According to the literature, boundary-spanners on both sides of the community-government boundary play a crucial role in the embedding and enabling of community-led urban regeneration and thereby its performance. However, knowledge about which conditions enable or constrain boundary-spanning activities is missing. In this chapter, therefore, we explore several key factors, and develop a conceptual model that highlights the conditions under which boundary-spanning between different spheres (local community, government, private sector) occurs and will be more or less effective. We situate these factors at different levels, focusing on the relationship between boundary-spanners and their specific institutional context, their network position, and their individual characteristics and skills.