The Vision: Inclusive Planning

05-Jan-07

Successful spatial planning is inclusive...

Individuals' and communities' opinions, actions and well-being matter deeply to spatial planning.

Consensus cannot always be achieved, but contested decisions should be taken transparently and fairly

 

The engagement of individuals and communities and regard for their respective rights must always be an integral part of planning processes. Public engagement in policy-making and action should engender partnership and collaboration, and enhance 'well being' . To achieve this, changes in the formal planning processes are required if we are to meet the expectations and aspirations for greater influence over the impacts of development and the quality of the environment.

Successfully-negotiated outcomes carry a greater commitment from the parties involved and create a greater likelihood of implementation. We need to recognise however that effective planning cannot always be achieved through consensus. Where hard choices are required, clear and equitable decision-making frameworks are essential.

We also need to understand that conflicts are often resolved through the established power structures in ways which disadvantage those most in need. Planning as a truly societal activity must seek to give a voice to those excluded communities - those with a direct interest in creating a better 'world' but little power to influence it.

Spatial planning processes, policies and outcomes therefore need:

  • to embrace more fully a respect for differences, notably of gender and ethnicity; changes should be considered to guarantee the rights of all to be included in the process;
  • to reduce social and spatial inequalities and not create new ones;
  • to be negotiated through a process that is first transparent, and second subject to independent scrutiny and arbitration; and
  • to result in a shared commitment to act upon the agreed outcomes of discussion, and to review and update plans.

 

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Author:
Rynd Smith
Publisher:
The Royal Town Planning Institute
Date:
05-Jan-07

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