The Hasidic Communities of Stamford Hill and Canvey Island

Abstract

A comparison between the residential dynamics in Stamford Hill and Canvey Island enables direct examination of a variety of non-economic segregation theories, which demonstrate that the individual’s ability to implement his or her residential preferences is also affected by the group’s level of community organisation and the characteristics of the surrounding urban space. Religious and communal identity appear as the driving force behind the micro-dynamics in Stamford Hill, allow relatively small Hasidic groups living close to the city centre to reproduce their physical proximity in space, and maintain their communal identity. Considering the high fertility rates and high residential demands, the council is limited in supporting the Hasidic communities’ housing needs. More specifically, we could expect micro-segregation mechanisms to operate in multicultural urban hubs as a result of people’s urge to feel comfortable in their residential surroundings. The housing shortage at Stamford Hill prompted the Satmar community to initiate a group action and send pioneers to settle in the peripheral area of Canvey Island. The quality of life, in terms of living conditions and housing prices, is significantly higher than in the old enclave, with a relatively low density of two persons per room, and the construction irregularities are negligible. Despite the concern of the veteran residents of the implications of the entry of newcomers on the composition of the community and house prices, the support of the local authority increases the chances of Canvey Island to become a model of harmonious standalone coexistence. The micro-segregation pattern of the Satmar community in Stamford Hill and around JCoCI in Canvey Island suggests that seemingly homogeneous inner-city neighbourhoods actually include subareas created by religious, social or cultural relations.