Cities for citizens : planning and the rise of civil society in a global age

Urban planning examines the use of land and buildings in cities and towns.

The decision-making process of planning can be complex due to the limited amount of land and the number of social, technological, legal, environmental and commercial factors involved in changing the use of any part of a town.

Decision-making involves three separate groups or forces: the state (legal and social requirements); the market (commercial requirements); and civil society (individuals and grassroots groups).The book analyzes how individuals and grassroots groups are increasingly influencing their cities development.

It gives global coverage incorporating chapters on Europe, USA, Asia, Australia, South Africa, and Latin America.