URBAN DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT TOWARDS IMPROVED CITY PROSPERITY (The case study of Egypt)

Abstract

In light of the Critical Urban Theory and within the current debate on the role of Urban Planning in the Neoliberalism and Monetarism ideologies, this dissertation examines the relationship between the urban management system and improved city prosperity. Through the grounded theory approach, this research is based on Qualitative Case Study analysis of the Egyptian Urban Management system in general, and the Low-Income National Housing Programme specifically, to understand the effectiveness of the government in guiding and monitoring the urban sector towards inclusive development and prosperity, within the natural development policy settings. The analysis is additionally reflected graphically using a quantitative tool developed by the researcher to indicate key strengths and weaknesses of urban management systems. The dissertation has proven the need to shift focus from rational planning methods to a broader managerial approach that looks beyond the plans, and ensures a real change on the ground. By further applying the research literature review, case study analysis, and conclusions to the Egyptian case study, a detailed result-based framework for the low-income national housing sector is designed and presented. Furthermore, a recommendation on the general urban management structure and system are provided to present an incremental vision for improved Urban Management in Egypt. This is complemented by the conceptual recommendation to change the focused role of the government from a supply driven provider, to a result based monitoring and guiding position supporting Monetarism theories of the governmental role in bridging the gap between social and market goals.