“The proof of the planning would be in the living.”
Harry Lash, Director of Planning,
Greater Vancouver Regional District 1969-1975
For the first time in history, more than half the world's population now lives in urban centres. Yet even with this knowledge, most (if not all) urban centres are completely incapable of dealing with the pressures and concerns this transition from rural to urban creates.
Harry Lash, Director of Planning,
Greater Vancouver Regional District 1969-1975
For the first time in history, more than half the world's population now lives in urban centres. Yet even with this knowledge, most (if not all) urban centres are completely incapable of dealing with the pressures and concerns this transition from rural to urban creates.
What makes the situation even more frustrating is that the largest block to appropriately and effectively dealing with these issues is government itself. Around the globe, municipalities are viewed as meagre associates. And Canada is no different.
According to provincial powers, provinces not only hold the proverbial reigns, but also the purse strings. In order to do anything significant cities in Canada must get approval from their provincial counterparts. Considering urban centres are now the engines of every nation, this governmental structure seems out-of-date.
Perhaps that is why this year's World Urban Forum (held last month in Vancouver) was so poignant. Held every two years and sponsored by the United Nation's the World Urban Forum is the international meeting place to discuss, determine and (perhaps) decide on how to deal with a variety of urban issues.
From slum issues, to transportation difficulties to infrastructure, substructure and architectecutre, this forum allows experts, academics and professionals (along with the aficinados) to meet, gather and discuss the very issues that affect our lives -- as city-dwellers.
For more information take a look at Christopher Hume's article in The Star, http://www.thestar.com or go online to the WUF site at: http://www.wd.gc.ca
"When livability became the key word for our regional planning, we knew we would have to find effective ways to deal with many problems…Producing a plan and regulations would not be enough. We had to deal with long-term future livability, but also with people’s ongoing satisfaction, their day-to-day experience of living in the region. Tomorrow’s livability needed as much attention as the attainment of a better future. “The proof of the planning would be in the living.”
Harry Lash, Director of Planning, Greater Vancouver Regional District 1969-1975
"When livability became the key word for our regional planning, we knew we would have to find effective ways to deal with many problems…Producing a plan and regulations would not be enough. We had to deal with long-term future livability, but also with people’s ongoing satisfaction, their day-to-day experience of living in the region. Tomorrow’s livability needed as much attention as the attainment of a better future. “The proof of the planning would be in the living.”
Harry Lash, Director of Planning, Greater Vancouver Regional District 1969-1975
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