ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses some of the most significant issues affecting today's consultations. The consultation mandate as a means of crystalizing the strategic approach provides an opportunity to convey the principles of the consultation – such as its intention to be responsive, genuine, engaging and accessible. Messages should also make reference to pre-consultation dialogue – such as the fact that the local authority and its members contributed to the consultation strategy. Public consultation occurs on each Transport for London (TfL) project where changes are proposed. Negotiation is a common feature of consultation, albeit in varying degrees. Appropriate research and planning provides a good basis for consultation and when this is done well local residents will be involved to an appropriate level and should not have grounds to object to the form of consultation. The consultation mandate can reassure potential users of the quality of consultation, including a commitment to be open, honest and thorough and to use the results constructively.
