ABSTRACT
The general public ( 1 in the diagram on pp.68-9) links up with the development system in three main ways: as a user of the product (new or renovated buildings), as a political force seeking to influence the system and as a source of capital (M). The first of these is straightforward. Most human activities require specially designed built space - buildings in which to live, work, exchange money for goods and services, be educated, be cared for when ill, and enjoy recreational and cultural experiences. Since all buildings decay at some rate, the task of renewing some of the total stock is continuous. But the general public's requirement of the development system is more complex than this. People need an appropriate mix of the various forms of built space within easy access of their home, unless they deliberately choose to live in places where such a requirement is unreasonable. This appropriate mix of workspace, plays pace, shopping space, etc. is a necessary condition for comfortable living. It is not, however, a sufficient condition. For example, the work buildings (e.g. factories and offices) may exist but the operation of the local economy may cause them to be filled with jobs unsuitable for the local population, or may cause the jobs to be lost altogether by plant closures.
