Market Activity and Industrial Development

Abstract

Most models of the development process concentrate on either events, agencies or the structural framework for development. Such models encourage simplistic policy responses to perceived development constraints. This paper explores the actions, interests and strategies of those who own land with potential for industrial development within the context of the resources to which they have access, the rules that they consider govern their behaviour and the ideas that they draw upon in land management and development. It is suggested that while active landowners may welcome or indeed initiate industrial development, passive owners can undermine development potential. The paper is based on research into the development achievements or prospects of 120 industrial sites in North West England.