ABSTRACT
The persisting process of urbanization, the worst excesses of a post-industrial society, and the explosion in population growth and car ownership, have all contributed towards a heightened awareness, and ultimate acceptance, of the need for the introduction of some form of regulation regarding the distribution of land between competing uses (Ashworth 1954). The expression, profession and practice of urban planning, with its multidisciplinary nature, comprehensive perspective, changing character and continuing self-questioning, is extremely difficult to define. It has been variously described as “the art and science of ordering the use of land and siting of buildings and communication routes so as to secure the maximum practicable degree of economy, convenience, and beauty” (Keeble 1969) and as “an attempt to formulate the principles that should guide us in creating a civilized physical background for human life” (Sharp 1942) whose main impetus is thus “…foreseeing and guiding change” (McLoughlin 1969). Put another way, however, it is concerned with providing the right site, at the right time, in the right place, for the right people.
