[WS:] And yet, you did not answer my question what is the alternative to it? The market? You sound like necons criticizing socialism because it was botched in Russia.
I am pretty sure you are well aware of the fact that all land development is local,and as such subject to local politics: the developers, the NIMBYs, the local politicians - a very noxious mix that is bound to show, no matter what. There are only two alternatives in dealing with it: either "leave is to the market forces" (translation: let the monied interests decide) or have some kind of public regulation of it (aka planning). I do not know about you, but I would trade the market for planning, even very imperfect one, without thinking twice.
-- Wojtek
"An anarchist is a neoliberal without money."