Book excerpt: Originally published in 1988. Inner city problems in advanced countries are being exacerbated by the decentralisation of economic activities and higher income groups. Only offices and tourism offer some prospects of growth, but these vary in their potential from one city to another. This book assesses changes in the structure of urban areas, concentrating on the process of decentralisation and the consequences for the inner city and city centre. It examines and evaluates policies and makes suggestions for the future management of the city.