The Emergence of Contemporary Masterplans: Property Markets and the Value of Urban Design

Abstract

Masterplanning large development and regeneration projects appears to have become more common in Britain since the late 1990s. This paper argues that one reason for this is the increased realization amongst promoters of development about the economic benefits of using such masterplans. This realization has partly occurred because of changes in the local economy and in property markets but also because of developer learning about the advantages of masterplanning. Optimistically, this suggests there has been a renewed interest in improving the built environment and a renewed faith in at least one type of plan making. More worryingly, it raises questions about the dominance of private interests in the production and planning of the built environment.

Acknowledgements

Special thanks to the Faculty of the Built Environment at the University of the West of England for the financial support for this research and to Dr Nigel Taylor for his interest and advice. Thanks also should be extended to Dr Ron Griffiths of the University of the West of England, Professor Gwyn Williams of the University of Manchester and the two anonymous referees for their comments.