Unit 2 · Urban Problems, Planning and Regeneration: Practice Questions

What is a defining characteristic of the informal economy often found in developing cities?

What is the primary focus of eco-cities in urban planning?

Why is urban regeneration frequently described as a contested process?

Which of the following is a planning solution specifically aimed at reducing urban car use or emissions?

Which urban planning solution aims to reduce car use by requiring drivers to pay a fee to enter a city center during specific peak hours?

Identify two social problems that often arise from an imbalance between housing demand and supply in rapidly growing urban areas.

How does the development of gated communities reflect income and opportunity inequalities in emerging world cities?

Urban regeneration is often a contested process. Explain why the goals of local residents might conflict with the goals of private businesses in a regeneration scheme.

(a) State two social problems that commonly result from a housing supply that does not meet demand in urban areas.
(b) Briefly explain how the lack of affordable housing in emerging world cities contributes to the growth of shanty settlements.
(c) Identify one type of organization, other than a national government, that can play a role in improving urban housing stock.

(a) Explain why industrialisation and rising affluence in cities often lead to a significant increase in motor vehicle numbers.
(b) Describe two planning solutions used by city managers to reduce urban air pollution from transport.
(c) Outline how traffic congestion can have a negative impact on human wellbeing in a megacity.