Different activities compete for space in urban areas - Leaving Cert Geography - Question Question 1 - 2006

As urban centres expand, there is a noticeable shift in land-use zones due to several factors such as population growth, economic development, and transportation advancements.

1. Encroachment of Commercial Zones: As cities grow, the Commercial Zone often expands outward, eating into the Residential Zone. This transition can be seen in cities like Toronto, where vibrant commercial districts have emerged from previously residential areas as demand for business space increases.

2. Increased Density of Residential Areas: With the increase in population density, Residential Zones evolve as well. Multi-family units, such as apartment buildings, may replace single-family homes to accommodate more residents, evident in New York City, where skyscrapers have supplanted lower-density housing.

3. Emergence of Mixed-Use Developments: Growing urban centres often see the development of mixed-use areas that combine residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. This trend can be observed in places like Melbourne, where traditional zoning is giving way to integrated spaces that cater to the needs of a diverse population.

4. Transportation Infrastructure Development: Expanding urban areas are often accompanied by improved transportation networks, which can lead to the transformation of land-use zones. For example, the introduction of new subway lines in London has facilitated the development of residential areas further away from the city core.

Overall, the competition for space in urban areas leads to a dynamic interplay between residential and commercial zones, resulting in continuous changes that reflect both public and private interests as urban centres evolve.