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Randstaad, Holland (Belhaven World Cities)
Randstaad Holland - Belhaven World Cities Author:Jan Van Weesep, etc. Randstaad literally means "ring city" and this text describes this unique urban system of Holland; the unified urban system that encloses Rotterdam as a port and Amsterdam as a cultural centre. The authors introduce the "National city" in the post-industrial era and its characteristics, patterns and problems involved in the development stages of... more » policy making. By considering the management of Randstaad, the costs and benefits of this unified urban system are explained. The benefits of a structural change include new jobs and adaptation of the built environment, whereas the costs focus on the social frictions and dysfunctions as a consequence of the transition. With the inventory of costs and benefits established, the planning framework of Randstaad is considered. The role of this unique multi-centered city for the Netherlands and the world in the 21st century is then examined.« less