Unit 9: Settlements - Change in land use and rapid urban growth

Urban sprawl 

Source: http://mringp2.weebly.com/urban-sprawl.html

Source: http://www.slideshare.net/wburkey/urban-sprawl-33815014

Effects of urban sprawl

 

Source: http://www.slideshare.net/wburkey/urban-sprawl-33815014

Controlling Growth in the Rural-Urban Fringe (from greenfield geography)

Because of urban sprawl and because the loss of greenfield sites is such a big problem, many suggestions have been given to solve the problem, including:

Greenbelts: A greenbelt is an area of land around urban areas that is protected from development. Greenbelts were first started in the UK in the 1930's and now there are 14 greenbelts around all major urban areas. The idea is to stop greenfield sites being built on and alternative like brownfield sites being used.

Urban Wedges: Some planners have suggested that urban growth should be allowed to take place in wedges (a bit like the wedges in the Hoyt Model). By building in wedges from the CBD it will ensure that some greens areas are protected near the CBD and throughout the city. This time of planning has been used in several Danish cities.

Brownfield Sites: The UK government has set targets for the use of brownfield sites. They want over 60% of new houses to be built on them, therefore protecting rural areas. However, many brownfield sites are heavily polluted, increasing the cost of construction and there are shortages of brownfield sites in areas where demand for houses is greatest. For example the south east of the UK where demand is high there is a shortage of brownfield sites.

Housing Density: Another proposition is to increase the housing density of all future housing developments. The UK government encourages all developments to have between 30 and 50 houses per hectare (10000m2). By doing this less land will be destroyed.

Source: http://greenfieldgeography.wikispaces.com/IGCSE+Settlements+and+GCSE+Settlements