ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at changes in the spatial planning system in the United Kingdom (UK) and European Union (EU), and explores some scenarios for the future. The 'Modernising Planning' initiative of the 1997 Labour Government has led to the creation of a new and more comprehensive planning framework for the UK. The Royal Town Planning Institute initiated a project in 1998 to investigate the scope for a National Spatial Planning Framework. The National Assembly for Wales has emphasised the importance of providing economic prosperity and sustainable development throughout Wales. The English regions appear to be very productive in the new age of regional planning. The European dimension of planning is important for all the regions of the UK, whether they are core or periphery in economic prosperity terms. The regional dimension is an increasing focus for the EU because of the extent of regional economic disparities and the importance of addressing economic and social cohesion.
