The map shows how a town called Poulton has developed over the last thirty-five years. There have been several changes, the most noticeable being the removing wastelands and the railway line, changing the type of housing and the expansion of retail establishments.
In 1900 there were two zones wastelands. One of lifeless zones was near the factory and one was located near the railway workers’ cottages. Citizens were living not only in the cottages, but, also, some of locals were living in terraced houses. There was only one “third place” in the city. According to Oldenburg’s theory “third places” are places where people can meet and interact in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. These places include cafes, parks, and libraries. However, there was only a single cafe in the entire city. Across the street from the cafe there was the only laundry and store in the city. There were two streets in the whole city in 1900.
How has the city changed in 35 years? Looking at the present-day map, a new lane has been put up in the city. The designation of the factory has been removed from the map. The railway workers’ cottages and terraced houses were demolished. Now, townspeople live in new flats and, besides, Bailey mansions, which were erected on the site of the factory and wasteland. Moreover, the number of shops grew from one to three, and some new “third places” appeared. A park and children’s playground were set up in the city.