Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Synopsis The activity of commercial and residential property markets is one of the major forces changing cities. The provision of new space for retail, industrial, office and tourist activities, together with housing, shapes the economic structure of a city, and sorts social groups into geographic areas and residential communities. The former shapes the labour market opportunities, whilst the latter impacts on planning issues and politics at all levels. This subject is designed to identify the key forces operating in each of these markets. This will involve a study of office location, shopping centres and industrial and factory zones, as well as residential areas. The unifying theme of the subject is the uneven geographic patterns in these different activities. At the same time, explanation will be sought in global, national and local influences upon developer behaviour, consumer choice and search behaviour.
Assessment Written (3000 words): 30% + Examinations (2 hours): 50% + Practical work/seminar participation: 20%