Urban Design, Neoliberalism, and Social Control in the Context of Winnipeg's Canada Life Centre

Abstract

This research analyzes modes of urban social control through conventional and non-conventional policing practices in Winnipeg’s “Sports, Hospitality and Entertainment District” (SHED), and the area surrounding Winnipeg’s National Hockey League arena. This research explores the relationship between neoliberal mechanisms that drive business improvement districts (BIDs) and policing practices during events in this space. Bourdieu’s “cultural capital”, and the concept of “space and place” with an emphasis on “urban branding” give insight into cultural, social, and economic differences and contextualize how the SHED is governed to promote consumption and reduce anti-social behaviours. Using a methodology of observation and a semiotic visual analysis, the findings suggest there is an increase in police and security presences in the times leading up to, during, and after NHL games in the SHED. It is argued that policing presences contribute to a securitization of capital through assisting in upholding ‘clean and safe’ logics that typically underpin the operation of BIDs, ultimately to encourage and maintain an environment that is welcoming to consumption by the middle- to upper-class.