Introduction

Abstract

London, Paris and New York all have severe housing shortages and an increase in the stock of housing would be valuable in each of these three cities. Why then do the authorities not promote building in Hyde Park, the Jardin du Luxembourg or Central Park? Quite obviously such construction would promote public outrage nationally and internationally because all three locations are cherished for the beauty, joy and amenity they provide. However, if houses were built in these parks there would be no shortage of people wanting to live in these pleasant and convenient places. No doubt substantial profits to the municipalities and to private developers could be generated by such prime residential developments. Alternatively, what about easing housing shortages by promoting housebuilding on land that is currently occupied by run-down industrial premises or using agricultural land just outside the boundaries of each urban area?