Planning is never far from the top of the policy or media agenda, whether this concerns 'garden-grabbing', the location of wind farms or protests about travellers' sites. The operation of the planning system raises strong views, even passions, and is highly political. Planners have to engage with developers working on multi-million pound schemes and the local communities that will be affected by such schemes. And throughout, they have to work in the public interest, delivering on broad policy goals and meeting the needs of vulnerable communities. This book is about the way that the planning system works, what it can do, what it cannot do and how it should evolve to meet the challenges of the 21st century. It looks at a range of issues to unlock the purpose of planning by being positive about the role of planning while remaining realistic about its achievements and potential. Written in a clear and accessible manner, this book will be essential reading for students studying planning in a variety of disciplines and practitioners engaging with the planning system.

About the Author
Yvonne Rydin is Professor of Planning, Environment and Public Policy at the Bartlett School of Planning, University College London and Director of the UCL Environment Institute. She has published widely on planning, governance and urban sustainability with a recent focus on governing for sustainable urban development. She is a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

Reviews
"A worthy contribution to the planning literature. It is refreshingly short, concise and provides a very accessible reference point and introduction to planning's purpose in a contemporary context." Housing Studies
'...a very clearly written and readable introduction to the planning field.' - Patsy Healey in Journal of Social Policy
"This book brings home why planning matters to everyone - it is at the centre of a complex web of politics, culture, economics and technology that create the hard and soft fabric of a community - and as the new government sets out to radically reform the planning system 'The purpose of planning' could not be timelier." Kate Henderson, Chief Executive, Town and Country Planning Association
"Professor Rydin sets out a clear case for renewed focus on the quality of our living and working environments and the planning leadership required to achieve sustainability." Jenny Crawford, Head of Research, Royal Town Planning Institute



Book Information
ISBN 9781847424303
Author Yvonne Rydin
Format Paperback
Page Count 176
Imprint Policy Press
Publisher Policy Press