Street as both urban form and institution of human movement, economic transaction, social intercourse and political contestation arguably stands at the core of urbanisation in Asia. It offers a stage and provides a backdrop for the workings of the city in this process, and as an outcome of an increasingly complex urban pluralism also registers and embodies in its changing architecture many conflicts and compromises.
At the same time, street is an essential constituent to urban transformation and with its incremental adjustments or wholesale renewal can be a catalyst for continuing cultural identity, fostering social and political progress, improving well-being and liveability, enhancing urban governance, etc. Therefore, what roles that street could and should play to cope with the pressing challenges in the rapid and intense urbanisation process is imperative for achieving a sustainable urban future in Asia.
