The structure of green areas in the urban agglomeration of the Western Netherlands. The Dutch approach: Planning a Randstadgroenstructuur

Abstract In dealing with changes in agriculture, and in the landscape of rural and urban areas sound planning, guidance and sometimes direct control by the government is required. In a densely populated country such as The Netherlands physical planning requires the formulation of a land use master plan, followed by development and management plans. The conservation and development of the structure of green areas in urban agglomerations demands an integrated approach of planning, development, design and management. Such a policy can only be realized if all authorities involved operate jointly. This point of view is illustrated in an example of the Dutch Approach: planning a Randstadgroenstructuur. The Randstadgroenstructuur is aimed at effecting a new balance between urban use of space and the development of agriculture, forestry, nature and rural recreation.