ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on how such institutional changes impinge on planning. It highlights the different institutional arrangements that have been implemented across the UK and explores how these are leading to different forms of strategic planning. The book provides a case study of the new kinds of regional strategy being developed in Northern Ireland with an emphasis on the consultation processes. It discusses the changes taking place in regional planning as a result of pressures from the EU and the new government. The book examines the government programme of “modernising” local government as its starting point and also explores the issue of community empowerment. It reviews the theoretical material and applies this to a detailed case study of participation practice. The book addresses probably the most controversial planning topic of the early years of New Labour in office.
