Is low-density urban spread preferable to high-density construction?
Low-density Pro: Accommodates many different lifestyles Provides separation of industry form residential and commercial enterprises. Con: Requires more infrastructure – roads, services (water, power, schools, emergency, police, repairs and maintenance), communications etc. – increased local taxes Reduces available farmland. – makes food more expensive Involves higher transportation numbers – expense, pollution, public transit more expensive. High-Density Pro Reduces the public and private expense from reduced infrastructure – see above Public transport cheaper ==> less pollution, faster commute times, more time for leisure. Concentration provides savings for industry, arts and entertainment Cons Restrictions in lifestyle – size of homes. Health issues – communicable diseases. More land available for agriculture, recreation. Summary Low density planning is more expensive for infrastructure and services Low density planning provides for more individual choices of living accommodation. Hi
