ABSTRACT

When introducing a new philosophy or values base for the planning system, as was done in New Zealand with sustainable management and in England with spatial planning, central government is faced with some fundamental questions. It can accept that the change is substantial enough that it will require a significant transition period and an equally significant investment in educational assistance to smooth that transition. The consequence of that approach may be substantial costs in both time and money. The alternative is to adopt a ‘hands off’ approach that essentially limits the involvement of central government and leaves the other players in the process with the task of defining their roles, while reserving the right to institute further reform if the outcomes are not what central government either sought or expected.