Metropolitan Plan

A metropolitan area is a region consisting of densely populated cities with numerous jurisdictions that share infrastructure, services and education and employment resources. The cities within these areas are connected by less populated areas, although may not be “urban” in character, they are associated to the cities’ through employment, retail or other related links.

As the population grows, new planning issues begin to rise within these metropolitan areas. The metropolitan regions adds strain to public resources, increases traffic congestion due to urban sprawl, is an inefficient use of land and requires an excessive use of infrastructure. These regions have also seen the formation of employment and retail clusters which are scattered and unorganised which adds to traffic congestion. These clusters are not considered a functioning urban centre and lack connectivity to other areas.  

Some of these issues can be addressed through the implementation of a metropolitan plan, outlining strategies and creating a functional structure for the area.  A metropolitan plan is necessary in establishing a detailed relationship between urban areas. Suburban clusters need to be preserved and supported by an improved transport system or greater pedestrian movement from place to place. A better disbursement of facilities and more a efficient use of land will also provide a variety of uses and/or a sense of individuality in the different urban areas.

Metropolitan plans are an important consideration for these forever developing and expanding cities. The Government needs to recognise these crucial issues and put into place a well-built policy framework that pre-empts the problem areas and create a more sustainable region.