"The Randstad metropolitan region encompassing Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam and Utrecht in the western Netherlands is regarded worldwide as a model of a 'successful' polycentric metropolis. It is widely cited as an example of how a region of interconnected small cities can effectively compete...

Forting up -- The search for community -- Gates to paradise : lifestyle communities -- I have a dream : the prestige communities -- Enclaves of fear : security zone communities -- You can run, but you can't hide -- Not-so-brave world -- Building better communities

In this open access publication, the social cohesion of urban neighborhoods and their residents is examined, which is often viewed as vulnerable since increased mobility, individualization, wider socio-economic and demographic changes have fundamentally altered the basis for everyday social...