Book reviews: Atlas of the Netherlands

Summary

This review assesses the eighth installment (1973) of the National Atlas of the Netherlands, comprising seven notable map sheets. It highlights the wide-ranging geological map, the classification and service areas of central places, and examples of land consolidation since 1950. Particular attention is given to innovative percentage-based maps of industrial distribution and informative transport maps covering existing and planned networks. The spatial-planning map for 2000 depicts anticipated urban growth, recreational functions of rural areas, and projected infrastructure. The reviewer praises the atlas’s consistently excellent cartographic design and printing. Having expanded to 72 sheets, the atlas was expected to be completed in 1976.