| |||||
A nucleated pattern often develops where defence is a priority, such as inside a meander (a bend on a river) or on a hilltop (for instance, Caerphilly). Cardiff developed as a nucleated settlement because its naturally moated castle could be easily defended. Villages that are situated by a water supply often grow into towns, for instance Taffs Well, or Ffynnon Taf in south Wales. Nucleated settlements also develop higher up a slope to avoid flooding. Often we see nucleated settlements where people have settled on flat lowland areas, where the town can expand in many directions. Route centres often create settlements with a nucleated pattern which grow up around a crossroad. Due to urbanisation and site factors, many settlements will expand quickly.
| |||||
| |||||