Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides an opportunity to rethink how spatial planning can work constructively with law and property rights, precisely so as to achieve the chosen planning aims better which could mean fairer, more efficient, effective or sustainable plans. It discusses how to cope with the institutional, environmental, and economic constraints on planning by law and property rights. The book explores in which way the institutional framework constrains planning by law and property rights and the consequences for attempts to change planning law. Huub Ploegmakers and van der Krabben start from the argument that planning by law and property rights can reduce the uncertainty faced by the users and creators of the physical environment. The book concludes that planning by law and property rights has its strengths, namely it creates stability and security.