278 8.7
Conclusion Findings from the empirical research clearly shows that the implementation
of the land use planning system in the study area is ineffective in planning and controlling housing supply. There are many weaknesses and shortcomings that existed in all the three planning mechanisms. The preparations of the SPs have failed to properly forecast future housing requirement, hence, affecting the formulation of housing planning policies. Similar situation exists during the preparations of the LPs, in which the lands allocated for future housing have exceeded the requirements of the plans. Such LPs have also failed to properly allocate suitable areas for future housing development. The ineffectiveness of the implementation of the land use planning system was further exacerbated by inefficiency of the planning control mechanism in monitoring and approving housing development applications. The problems of ineffectiveness of the system in planning and controlling housing supply is not only concentrated on the technical issues as above, but also involves the fundamental principles of the planning system. It is perceived that the ‘mentality’, the approach and the practice of housing planning are still emphasising on the physical suitability factors and the achievement of broad housing needs. The significance of the aspects of demand, such as households effective demands and the market demands have been neglected in the process of housing planning. In consideration of a close interaction between the land use planning system and the market system in the process of housing supply, thus any effort to strengthen the housing planning process should give due attention to the market mechanisms. The future development plans and planning control process should recognise that the effectiveness of housing planning is not only determined by the attainment of the objective of meeting housing needs, but also that of fulfilling the housing demands. By incorporating the demand (household effective demands and market demands) mechanisms, complemented by a stronger nature of housing planning and development policy, it will not only improve and streamline the process of housing planning, but will also strengthen the role of land use planning system in providing sufficient housing, encouraging sustainable housing development and ensuring