ABSTRACT
The role of the university master plan is to promote communication between parts of the campus, to create adaptable yet coherent urban structures, and to provide the means of achieving a quality image for the university. Walking on campus is the most efficient means of movement for students and academic staff. Routes should be direct, safe, clearly perceived, enjoyable to use, and reflective in spirit. Contact with nature is important, so too is the opportunity to engage in discussion away from the bustle of inter-lecture movement. Skyline definition is often sought especially for the city-centre university where college buildings need to compete for attention in the urban scene. Here the building signals to the centre and defines the edge. Universities in inner cities face particular difficulties. The sense of decline as old industries collapse or housing areas deteriorate, the rise in crime and vandalism, the under-achievement in feeder schools or colleges, all add to the university's problems.
