Planning Research Ser. : Practice and Potential

Based on twelve case studies, this report analyses the impact of mixed-use development, with a significant housing component, to the revitalisation of town centres. It concludes that there has been an eclectic mix of such schemes that have made a positive contribution and that the obstacles to the achievement of such schemes have been overstated. Although most planning authorities consider mixed-use schemes to be an important area of policy, it is not required in many development plans. The report concludes that vibrant and attractive mixed-use environments can be achieved by an emphasis on managing the mix of uses on an area basis, rather than pursuing discrete schemes.