A new 21st-century urban phenomenon is emerging: the networked polycentric mega-city-region. Developed around one or more cities of global status, it is characterized by a cluster of cities and towns, physically separate but intensively networked in a complex spatial division of labor. This book, the outcome of a major international research program, describes and analyzes eight such

regions: South East England, the Bassin Parisien, Central Belgium, the Dutch Randstad, RhineRuhr, Rhine-Main, Northern Switzerland, and Greater Dublin.

For the first time, this work shows how businesses interrelate and communicate in geographical space – within each region, between them, and with the wider world. It goes on to demonstrate the profound consequences for spatial planning and regional development in Europe – and, by implication, other similar urban regions of the world. Arranged in five parts, the book introduces the concept of a megacity region, analyzes its characteristics, examines the issues surrounding regional identities, and discusses policy ramifications and outcomes for infrastructure, transport systems, and regulation.

Packed with high quality maps and case study data, and written in a clear style by highly experienced authors, this will be an insightful and significant analysis suitable for professionals in urban planning and policy, business and investment communities, technical libraries, and students in urban studies, geography, economics, and planning. The book includes contributions from partners based in each case study area