ABSTRACT

Planning control in most counbies has traditionally been based on zoning. Zoning is intended to provide stability through clear rules but is not capable of adapting easily to changing needs and opportunities. ln contrast, Development Control, as used in Britain and some other counbies, offers wider opportunities for using change. By allowing discretion in the way policy is applied, it seeks to treat each case on its merits. Zoning separates rather than relates. Development control concentrates on relationships. Zoning is certain but inflexible. Development Control is flexible, but uncertain (Thomas 1983) The two processes reflect contrasting philosophies about the role of planning (Delafons 1960). Zoning is fundamentally a bureaucratic process, development control is a design process. (Minett 1986).