The world's population is rapidly urbanizing but the affluence and development often associated with cities are far from equitably or sustainably distributed. Where it was once taken for granted that responsibility for urban development lay with the state, increasingly the emphasis has shifted to market-driven and public-private sector initiatives, which can marginalize the intended beneficiaries - the urban poor - from decision making and implementation. This text outlines the essential conditions for effective urban planning and management by placing bottom-up community initiatives at the heart of the push for equitable and sustainable development in cities. Crucially, the state must engage with both the market and civil society in pursuit of sustainable cities. Presenting a wide-ranging selection of case studies in rapidly urbanizing and transitional countries, from the poorest parts of Africa and Asia to the relatively developed United Kingdom, the authors describe and analyze innovations in how globally disadvantaged urban communities can be engaged in improving their living environments.

'An important, as well as a significant attempt to investigate the role of civil society concerning itself with urban problems.'
Progress In Development Studies

'One comes away from this book with a deep appreciation for the complexity of community development and for levels of analysis that will be essential in this globalising era if we are to understand it.'
Development In Practice

'It is a well-edited book that provides positive, encouraging examples of urban development that are peaceful, environmentally sound and improve the dignity and living conditions of urban citizens.'
Urban Studies

'This book argues that sustainable urban development is a political process which involves both strategic objectives and enhanced democratic participation.'
Aslib Book Guide

Michael Carley is Honorary Professor at the School of Planning and Housing, Edinburgh College of Art/Heriot-Watt University where Paul Jenkins is Director of the Centre for Environment and Human Settlements and Harry Smith has worked as a Research Associate. Michael is co-author of Sharing the World and Managing Sustainable Development: Second Edition; Paul has extensive professional and research experience in southern Africa; Harry is currently Central Development Officer at Community Self-Build Scotland.