The Multiple Nuclei Model of Urban Morphology by C.D. Harris and E.L. Ullman
The Multiple Nuclei Model:
According to C.D. Harris and E.L. Ullman, the concentric and sectoral models have the advantage of an essential simplicity, but actual patterns of land use are generally far more complex and varied, than either model would suggest. Consequently, in 1945, a less rigid model capable of application to a variety of urban patterns was proposed by Harris and Ullman. This was termed the multiple nuclei theory of urban structure.
It was suggested that land use patterns in most large cities develop around a number of discrete centres of nuclei rather than a single centre as described in concentric and sectoral models. The clustering of related land uses around these nuclei in the city creates a cellular structure, the pattern of which will be largely determined by the unique factors of site and history of any particular city. The multiple nuclei theory does not produce a simple model of urban structure appropriate to each and every city, but suggests a number of general principles which are relevant to the land use pattern of most cities.
In this model the term ‘nucleus’ has been used to refer to attracting element around which urban growth may take place.
In this model the term ‘nucleus’ has been used to refer to any Acting element around which urban growth may take place.
The proponents of this theory emphasized that such multiple nuclei have been present right from the time of origin of cities, presenting as urban growth has filled around them. Metropolitan London is cited as one of the examples with ‘The City’ and ‘West Minister’ originating at separate points in the open country-one as a centre of finance and commerce, and the other a political centre.
In fact, with the growth of city, the CBD loses its uniqueness-that it may become just one of the many centres in the city. The high grade activities will abandon it for centres better located to serve the high income areas.
The dominant nuclei are proliferating in this manner. Other centres will develop on a regional or specialized basis, thus strengthening the multiple nuclei generalization.
This model is considered to be more scientific which explains the present growth of urban centres both in the developing and the developed countries. This theory goes much farther than the previous two in explaining the modern expanding cities where a number of nuclei, each specializing in particular functions, are evolving.
In brief, none of the three models provides a true explanation of land use in urban areas. Each of the models, however, has some merits.
It must be underscored that urban land use is a dynamic concept. The morphology of a city changes with the change in time and space. The development of transport is constantly changing the internal structure of the urban places.
E. Ullman proposed that trade was an interaction based on three phenomena: complementarity, intervening opportunities, and transferability of commodities.
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multiple nuclei model
Summary, Short notes/ Main Points
The multiple nuclei model is an economical model created by Chauncy Harris and Edward Ullman in the 1945 article “The Nature of Cities”.
Multiple Nuclei Model by C.D Harris & E.L Ullman
Postulated – 1945
Based on: Chicago city
It suggests that land use pattern in most large cities develop around a number of discrete centres of nuclei rather than a single centre.
E. Ullman proposed that trade was an interaction based on three phenomena: complementarity, intervening opportunities, and transferability of commodities.
9 Discrete Centres of Nuclei
- Central Business District (CBD)
- Wholesale and Light Manufacturing
- Low class Residential
- Middle class Residential
- High class Residential
- Heavy Manufacturing
- Outlying Business District
- .Residential Suburb
- Industrial Suburb
Links of Urban Land Use Models:
1. Concentric Zone Model by E.W Burgess
2. Wedge/Sectoral Model by Homer Hoyt and M.R.Davis
3.Multiple Nuclei Model by C.D Harris and E.D Ullman
4.Pre.asked question on Urban Land Use in NTA & CBSE UGC NET