Making Common Ground ― Public-Private Partnerships in Land for Housing

This book provides a comprehensive review of experience in designing and implementing a wide range of partnerships for the efficient and equitable use of urban land.

Using examples from countries throughout the world and at all levels of economic development, the author looks at the achievements and limitations of formal partnerships. Evidence is presented to show that a range of informal partnerships, or relationships, has evolved, especially in developing countries. These are shown to have made a far greater impact on urban land development and to have been of greater benefit to lower income groups. The book therefore adopts a broad and inclusive definition of partnerships and shows that they exist within a continuum of public/private relationships.

All examples are assessed according to four criteria, the extent to which partnerships have:
1) Increased the supply of urban land
2) Improved the efficiency of urban land markets
3) Improved access for low-income groups
4) Provided the basis for a more productive relationship between public and private sectors

Recommendations are given for improving and expanding the contribution of partnerships according to varied local conditions. This book will be essential reading for urban and town planners, academics and their students.