ABSTRACT
This chapter shows range of definitions of participation, and focuses on the view of government, and the role of local political activity in land-use planning and housing issues as a form of participation in local government decision-making. It considers some empirical examples of local political action over land-use planning issues, and the problems confronting individuals or groups who want to influence council policies which they oppose. The Planning Advisory Group report recommended a separation of planning decisions into two levels, with only strategic policy plans to be submitted for Ministry approval, and with public participation as an integral part of the process. The participant is seen as a consumer to be satisfied and thus is given some opportunity to articulate his or her preferences from time to time. Dennis's stress on the mechanics of participation has led him to include a sixth style where the 'client' is at his most conflict-oriented.
