Neil Adams

Convergence and Policy Transfer: An Examination of the Extent to which Approaches to Spatial Planning have Converged within the Context of an Enlarged EU

Abstract The paper explores the evolution of approaches to spatial planning within the enlarged European Union (EU) and seeks to assess the extent to which such approaches have converged. The context for the evolution of the discipline is examined before the extent of convergence is assessed on the basis of case studies examining spatial policy in Ireland, Scotland and Wales and the Baltic States of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. The assessment reveals a certain ambiguity where a significant degree of convergence in approach and practice can be detected until closer examination raises the question of how far such convergence has gone beyond the level of rhetoric. Evidence from the case studies also suggests that a lacuna between rhetoric and reality appears to be an emerging characteristic of spatial planning throughout the EU. In this context the need for and value of context sensitive local solutions is clear.

Engaging in European Spatial Planning: A Central and Eastern European Perspective on the Territorial Cohesion Debate

The following paper sets out to determine the differential extent of the engagement of Central and Eastern European (CEE) member states with the European spatial planning (ESP) debate over territorial cohesion. It focuses on the written statements submitted in response to the European Commission “Green Paper on Territorial Cohesion” consultation in 2009. The geographical distribution of the respondents is analysed, before CEE member states’ responses are examined in detail, to explore the diverse interpretations of the concept of “territorial cohesion” among CEE actors. While the data collection for this paper has been restricted empirically to the consultation process, it reflects its findings in consideration of member states’ engagement with the debate as it manifested before and after the Green Paper. The debate over the exact conceptual and operational “framing” of territorial cohesion, launched by the European Commissions Green Paper, constitutes one of the many arenas through which ESP currently evolves, together with the transnational initiatives developed in the framework of the European Territorial Cooperation objective, the European Observation Network for Territorial Development and Cohesion (ESPON) and the process that recently led to the publication of the Territorial Agenda of the European Union 2020. The paper concludes that the overall level of engagement of CEE actors in ESP is proportionally lower in comparison with that of their northwestern European counterparts. The increasing involvement of some CEE member states within the ESPON 2013 Programme, as well as the activities undertaken by the Hungarian and Polish EU Presidencies in 2011, suggests that this level of CEE engagement is growing albeit differentially.

Unlocking the Potential: The Role of Universities in Pursuing Regeneration and Promoting Sustainable Communities

The election of New Labour in 1997 gave fresh impetus to the regeneration and community engagement agendas, and these are clearly central pillars in the Governments drive for sustainable communities. As major institutions in many towns and cities, universities can potentially play a major role in the development of our urban areas and make a significant contribution to the creation of sustainable communities. This paper examines the contribution of universities to urban regeneration and to local communities in England. Whilst there have been numerous case studies assessing the impact of specific universities on local and regional economies and wider research on the impact of universities on the national economy, there has generally been little attention given to their contribution to wider regeneration aims. Rather than adopting a case study approach, the research has focused on a nationwide survey generating quantitative and qualitative data to assess how universities perceive their role within this wider context, the extent to which they have become involved in such initiatives and possible barriers to such involvement. The research indicates that whilst many universities in England have been involved in regeneration and community initiatives, there is potential for more substantial and influential involvement, which could have significant benefits for the countrys deprived areas and communities.

Indicators for Spatial Planning and Territorial Cohesion: Stakeholder-Driven Selection Approach for Improving Usability at Regional and Local Levels

González A., Daly G., Pinch P., Adams N., Valtenbergs V., Burns M. C. and Johannesson H. Indicators for spatial planning and territorial cohesion: stakeholder-driven selection approach for improving usability at regional and local levels, Regional Studies. Reformed European Union Cohesion Policy aims at delivering a coherent investment policy to achieve the Europe 2020 Strategy goals and to reduce regional disparities. Spatial indicators measure progress towards agreed policy goals and support place-based approaches to policy implementation. Despite the range of indicators available, development of a standardized approach in support of Cohesion Policy has received little empirical attention. A set of key spatial indicators has been identified in a stakeholder-driven process. The methodological approach applied is presented and resulting indicators critically appraised with regards to their applicability and potential for assisting improved integration between Cohesion Policy and spatial planning.