Stephen's research covers two broad themes. The first theme focuses on conceptualising, measuring and analysing the dynamics of spatial development. This area of research involves developing and applying different analytical frameworks and methodologies to understand complex spatial structures and processes.  This has included research on housing and labour market interaction; changing housing and neighbourhood interactions; the measurement of spatial planning outcomes; neighbourhood change; migration in Europe; and spatial housing market analysis.  

The second theme focuses on the analysis and evaluation of spatial and territorial policies.  This area of work involves understanding the drivers of spatial and territorial policies; the processes, practices and governance arrangements underpinning policy development and implementation; and the spatial, economic and social impacts of dfferent policy interventions.  This has included research on the practice of local and strategic spatial planning; infrastructure delivery; evidence-based spatial strategy-making; the analysis of urban policy in the UK; and the analysis of the spatial impacts and conflicts generated by government policies.