An evaluation of Perry's neighbourhood unit concept : a case study in the Renfrew Heights area of Vancouver, B.C.

The purpose of this thesis is to attempt to validate the pre-supposed hypothesis, that 'The application of Perry's neighbourhood unit theory and its scheme in Vancouver is successful in its physical aspect and is not successful in its social aspect'. The study program includes the following eight steps: 1. Reviewing the historical aspect of Perry's theory. 2. Describing Perry's theory and its scheme and defining its goal. 3. Summarizing the ramifications of its application. 4. Examining the main criticisms of Perry's theory. 5. Analyzing and evaluating Perry's theory in detail. 6. Surveying the Renfrew Heights area in Vancouver, B.C. 7. Inducting and interpreting the survey findings. 8. From the findings, evaluating the hypothesis. Through this program, the first five steps have helped the writer to have a deeper understanding of Perry's theory. From the final three steps it is concluded that the hypothesis is valid. From the whole study it is concluded that Perry's neighbourhood unit theory and its scheme are still useful. The basis for this conclusion is not because of the goal of Perry's theory, but because the theory provides maximum possible facilities in a residential area with its self-contained character. Finally it is concluded that the successful application of a theory is critical, and the failure of its application does not reduce the value of the theory.Applied Science, Faculty ofCommunity and Regional Planning (SCARP), School ofGraduat