UNIT 5 – SPRAWL

Writing task
“Suburbanization is increasing as people move out of cities into suburban
areas. Is it better to build more homes in existing suburbs or create new
modern suburbs in rural areas?”
The surge in suburban growth has triggered a debate on whether to prioritize
developing existing suburbs or expanding into rural areas to meet housing
demands. Advocates of revitalizing existing suburbs argue that it's a more
favorable option due to pre-existing infrastructure, facilities, and established
communities. Constructing new transit links, schools, shopping centers, and
leisure spaces in rural areas would be costly and wasteful, making it
unnecessary compared to utilizing existing suburban resources.
Moreover, existing suburbs often possess both economic vitality and strong
communal ties, potentially providing employment opportunities and fostering
community bonds. Investing in these areas prevents scenarios like the economic
decline witnessed in regions such as the Rust Belt in the U.S., stemming from
neglect and lack of investment.
However, the idea of building in rural spaces touts environmental benefits by
facilitating the construction of eco-friendly homes, reducing the impact on the
surrounding environment. Yet, this approach might not be sustainable due to
limited land availability. Furthermore, encroaching upon rural areas jeopardizes
vital green spaces and wildlife habitats.
Despite the advantages of developing existing suburbs, challenges exist. Not all
suburbs have thriving economies or well-established communities, leading to
potential housing vacancies and social issues. Additionally, new developments
can inflate property prices, making it challenging for locals to afford homes in
their own neighborhoods, causing tensions between existing and new residents.
While not without drawbacks, the revitalization of existing suburbs stands as a
beneficial solution, fostering social and economic prosperity. It presents a more
favorable alternative than encroaching upon rural areas, balancing housing
demands while preserving established communities and infrastructure.