Introduction

From medieval market towns to manufacturing centres, coastal villages, farming communities and picturesque tourist destinations, no two places are the same and their variety is one of their strengths. During the twentieth century their fortunes were radically altered by shifting rural employment patterns, increased car ownership, changing patterns of trade and consumption, and a rapid growth in communication technology. The character and sense of place at the heart of the popularity of rural towns as places to live, work and play is under threat. Drawing people away from town centres, these developments erode community cohesion and public life and increase reliance on the car. High-quality architecture can learn from its context and feel rooted in its place without imitating what has gone before.