Loss of function in terms of port and industry in urban areas in contact with water, commonly known as waterfronts, has led to the abandon of entire areas and a consequent break-up in the relationship between water and city.

Cities on Water sees its role as providing an up-to-date view of ongoing changes in the main waterfront cities throughout the world, analysing what has already been done, along with future projects for upgrading these areas.

A special initiative, WiN - Waterfront international Network, has been set up to collect and provide information on waterfront projects at an international level through the web site www.waterfront-net.org.