With very few exceptions, the measures suggested by NRP 41 projects contribute to sustainable regional planning. Pricing measures in particular (with appropriate regional implementation), and improved public transport, support the objectives of regional planning although they cannot prevent the growth of settlements at the edges of conurbations. The general trend of land use increasing annually by 1.5 per cent (reduced density) will not easily be halted by additional measures. These findings are the result of looking at trends and suggested measures from the viewpoint of regional planning within NRP41. The report shows that regional planning can generally be defined as "sustainable" if it offers short trips, and therefore benefits for public and non-motorised transport. It can be described in terms of "high density", "activity mix" and "multi-centrality". The authors query current objectives and means of promoting rural regions, and suggest not equal conditions, but life styles of equal quality adapted to the prevailing circumstances. Apart from a clarification of the use of the term "sustainable regional planning", the report provides a broad survey of the interrelationships between regional planning and transport, as well as a critical analysis of policies in this controversial area. (A)
Abstract