PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN BRITISH LAND USE PLANNING

Abstract

Public participation in British land use planning is not a new concept. It has been a statutory requirement in the plan making process there since the 1970s. However, the effectiveness of the concept has been much debated over the years. Does public participation really benefit the public in the long run? Are the ways which involve the public in the preparation of structure and local plans effective? The concept of community planning has been introduced recently. The idea is to involve the local public at a lower level of plan preparation, that is, at the town centre level. This level of participation is measured up to the citizen power stage. However, the method has yet to be explored comprehensively. It is true that public participation in the planning process is important everywhere, including Singapore, in assisting planning authorities to cater to the needs and aspirations of the people. However, the public needs to have a general knowledge of the planning system before they can participate fully. The government should therefore make an effort in reaching out to the people and implement the necessary steps in 'educating' them.