Definition of new town

The term "new town" refers to a planned settlement established in a specific location, primarily to address the need for urban expansion or relocation of population due to various factors such as economic, social, or political reasons. The origins of the phrase can be traced back to the 19th century when urbanization started to gain momentum in Europe and North America. In Europe, the term "garden city" was coined by the English architect and town planner Ebenezer Howard in the early 1900s as a response to the unsanitary and overcrowded conditions of industrial cities. The concept of garden cities advocated balancing urban and rural life by creating self-sufficient towns with green spaces, housing, and employment opportunities within walking distance. This vision inspired many planned settlements, such as Letchworth Garden City in England and Radburn in the United States. In America, "new towns" became popular after World War II, driven by the federal government's desire to expand urban areas and relocate displaced populations due to urban renewal programs. The Monetary Committee Act (1954) in the UK established a regulatory framework for the development of new towns, which later influenced international urban planning trends. The concept of new towns evolved to address broader social and economic challenges, such as the need for affordable housing and job creation in underserved areas. Today, new towns exist in various forms, from mixed-use developments to tech hubs, and aim to provide sustainable, livable, and socially inclusive urban environments.