Public Consultation and Community Involvement in Planning

'This book is a very comprehensive overview of the historical background, the obstacles and the democratic legitimacy challenges that come with consultation and community involvement in the changing world of planning, community relations and corporate social responsibility. It offers a tried and tested approach to citizen engagement strategies, informed by a strong theoretical grounding and years of experience on the ground, and provides excellent insights into best practice, demonstrated through a range of projects.' – Adrian Penfold OBE, Head of Planning, British Land

'For those involved in promoting Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) through the Development Consent Order (DCO) process under the Planning Act 2008 this publication provides a very good account of the stakeholder engagement and public consultation necessary to meet requirements and achieve a successful outcome. Information and guidance on good practice is presented in a clear, concise and informative way which is readily accessible to busy practitioners.' – Paul White, Technical Director and EIA Technical Authority in the Infrastructure Division at Atkins Ltd

'With the increasing demands being placed upon the planning system for local accountability to be at the forefront of planning practice and decision-making, the process of involving the community in planning can frequently be treated as a science. Penny and Martin’s book reminds us that engaging with individuals and communities is still very much an art and requires imagination and creativity to both inform and engage effectively. There is a wealth of experience and best practice contained within this book that shows us what has worked and importantly to inspire and encourage us to continue to search for new and innovative ways to engage individuals in the planning and building of our future communities.' – Will Cousins, Partner, David Lock Associates

'Perhaps the most remarkable change in planning since the 1960s has been the growing appetite for ordinary people to want to get involved in the planning process. Yet for too long developers have just played lip service to this valid interest. Having worked with Penny over the years I have greatly admired her approach and here it is described both theoretically and through wide-ranging examples. It is the antithesis of the ‘dark art’ of spin so often associated with communication in planning. Penny shows how a considered approach can keep dialogue focused and constructive while both capitalising on modern technology and managing expectations. What comes across is a respect and empathy for consultees that makes her approach so effective in bridging the divide between developer and community.' – Stuart Robinson, Freelance Planning, Placemaking and Development consultant and previously Executive Director and Chairman of Planning at CBRE

"This book is a major achievement and Planning Schools should make it compulsory reading." —The Consultation Institute, December 2017