Which term refers to the renovation and improvement of areas that were previously in disrepair?

The term that best refers to the renovation and improvement of areas that were previously in disrepair is urban renewal. Urban renewal encompasses a broad range of activities aimed at revitalizing urban areas that have deteriorated or faced neglect over time. This process typically involves renovating buildings, improving infrastructure, enhancing public spaces, and often aims to attract new businesses and residents to invigorate the community.

While redevelopment and gentrification also deal with transformation within urban environments, they have specific nuances. Redevelopment often focuses on replacing old structures with new ones, sometimes resulting in the displacement of existing residents. Gentrification refers specifically to the process by which wealthier individuals move into a declining area, leading to increased property values and potentially displacing lower-income households. Restoration is generally associated with returning a building or area to its original condition rather than improving or upgrading it.

Therefore, urban renewal is recognized as the most encompassing and accurate term for the comprehensive process of renovation and revitalization of urban spaces suffering from disrepair.