Y. Chen
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36 records found
1
Governing Long Term Flood Recovery in Amsterdam
How governance arrangements enable or constrain Building Back Better
This thesis examines how long-term flood recovery is governed in Amsterdam and how this affects the implementation of Build Back Better (BBB). Increasing flood risks due to climate change highlight the importance of not only preventing floods but also recovering in a way that reduces future vulnerability. However, long-term recovery remains underdeveloped in Dutch flood risk management. This research therefore aims to answer the question: “How do Amsterdam's governance arrangements enable or constrain the operationalisation of Build Back Better (BBB) principles in long-term flood recovery?’’
To answer this question, a qualitative single-case study was conducted in Amsterdam. The research combines a policy review of 11 flood-related policy documents, 12 semi-structured interviews (15 respondents), and a focus group with 29 participants. The data were analysed using the Policy Arrangements Approach (PAA), focusing on actors, resources, rules, and policy discourse, in combination with three BBB dimensions: environmental, infrastructural, and social.
The results show that for local policies in Amsterdam there is no long-term recovery strategy. The national BBB ambitions and goals are hard to conceptualise within the local context, leading to the fact that long-term flood recovery in Amsterdam is fragmented and not prioritised. Responsibilities are divided across multiple actors, but there is no concrete plan on who is responsible during long-term recovery. Furthermore, financial and organisational capacity for recovery is lacking, despite the presence of knowledge on BBB. Rules and regulations mainly focus on prevention and short-term recovery, leaving long-term recovery largely undefined. In addition, policy discourse prioritises a rapid return to normal conditions and prevention, thereby limiting recovery as a moment for transformation.
The conclusion is therefore that governance arrangements in Amsterdam mainly constrain the operationalisation of BBB in long-term flood recovery. The main challenge is not a lack of knowledge, but a lack of governance structures that support implementation. As a result, recovery is primarily focused on restoring existing systems rather than improving them.
These findings show that long-term recovery needs to be better included in flood governance. This means that roles and responsibilities need to be clearer, and that actors need to work together more rather than separately. It is also important that there are enough resources and capacity to organise long-term recovery.
At the same time, this study is limited by the incomplete inclusion of relevant actors and its reliance on resilience strategies to assess BBB, which may blur the distinction between recovery and prevention. Moreover, a news reporter was present during the focus group, leading to fewer open comments. For future research, it would be useful to further develop practical BBB recovery strategies for different contexts, such as other cities or rural areas. It would also be valuable to bring actors together in workshops to better understand their roles and improve collaboration.
...
To answer this question, a qualitative single-case study was conducted in Amsterdam. The research combines a policy review of 11 flood-related policy documents, 12 semi-structured interviews (15 respondents), and a focus group with 29 participants. The data were analysed using the Policy Arrangements Approach (PAA), focusing on actors, resources, rules, and policy discourse, in combination with three BBB dimensions: environmental, infrastructural, and social.
The results show that for local policies in Amsterdam there is no long-term recovery strategy. The national BBB ambitions and goals are hard to conceptualise within the local context, leading to the fact that long-term flood recovery in Amsterdam is fragmented and not prioritised. Responsibilities are divided across multiple actors, but there is no concrete plan on who is responsible during long-term recovery. Furthermore, financial and organisational capacity for recovery is lacking, despite the presence of knowledge on BBB. Rules and regulations mainly focus on prevention and short-term recovery, leaving long-term recovery largely undefined. In addition, policy discourse prioritises a rapid return to normal conditions and prevention, thereby limiting recovery as a moment for transformation.
The conclusion is therefore that governance arrangements in Amsterdam mainly constrain the operationalisation of BBB in long-term flood recovery. The main challenge is not a lack of knowledge, but a lack of governance structures that support implementation. As a result, recovery is primarily focused on restoring existing systems rather than improving them.
These findings show that long-term recovery needs to be better included in flood governance. This means that roles and responsibilities need to be clearer, and that actors need to work together more rather than separately. It is also important that there are enough resources and capacity to organise long-term recovery.
At the same time, this study is limited by the incomplete inclusion of relevant actors and its reliance on resilience strategies to assess BBB, which may blur the distinction between recovery and prevention. Moreover, a news reporter was present during the focus group, leading to fewer open comments. For future research, it would be useful to further develop practical BBB recovery strategies for different contexts, such as other cities or rural areas. It would also be valuable to bring actors together in workshops to better understand their roles and improve collaboration.
...
This thesis examines how long-term flood recovery is governed in Amsterdam and how this affects the implementation of Build Back Better (BBB). Increasing flood risks due to climate change highlight the importance of not only preventing floods but also recovering in a way that reduces future vulnerability. However, long-term recovery remains underdeveloped in Dutch flood risk management. This research therefore aims to answer the question: “How do Amsterdam's governance arrangements enable or constrain the operationalisation of Build Back Better (BBB) principles in long-term flood recovery?’’
To answer this question, a qualitative single-case study was conducted in Amsterdam. The research combines a policy review of 11 flood-related policy documents, 12 semi-structured interviews (15 respondents), and a focus group with 29 participants. The data were analysed using the Policy Arrangements Approach (PAA), focusing on actors, resources, rules, and policy discourse, in combination with three BBB dimensions: environmental, infrastructural, and social.
The results show that for local policies in Amsterdam there is no long-term recovery strategy. The national BBB ambitions and goals are hard to conceptualise within the local context, leading to the fact that long-term flood recovery in Amsterdam is fragmented and not prioritised. Responsibilities are divided across multiple actors, but there is no concrete plan on who is responsible during long-term recovery. Furthermore, financial and organisational capacity for recovery is lacking, despite the presence of knowledge on BBB. Rules and regulations mainly focus on prevention and short-term recovery, leaving long-term recovery largely undefined. In addition, policy discourse prioritises a rapid return to normal conditions and prevention, thereby limiting recovery as a moment for transformation.
The conclusion is therefore that governance arrangements in Amsterdam mainly constrain the operationalisation of BBB in long-term flood recovery. The main challenge is not a lack of knowledge, but a lack of governance structures that support implementation. As a result, recovery is primarily focused on restoring existing systems rather than improving them.
These findings show that long-term recovery needs to be better included in flood governance. This means that roles and responsibilities need to be clearer, and that actors need to work together more rather than separately. It is also important that there are enough resources and capacity to organise long-term recovery.
At the same time, this study is limited by the incomplete inclusion of relevant actors and its reliance on resilience strategies to assess BBB, which may blur the distinction between recovery and prevention. Moreover, a news reporter was present during the focus group, leading to fewer open comments. For future research, it would be useful to further develop practical BBB recovery strategies for different contexts, such as other cities or rural areas. It would also be valuable to bring actors together in workshops to better understand their roles and improve collaboration.
To answer this question, a qualitative single-case study was conducted in Amsterdam. The research combines a policy review of 11 flood-related policy documents, 12 semi-structured interviews (15 respondents), and a focus group with 29 participants. The data were analysed using the Policy Arrangements Approach (PAA), focusing on actors, resources, rules, and policy discourse, in combination with three BBB dimensions: environmental, infrastructural, and social.
The results show that for local policies in Amsterdam there is no long-term recovery strategy. The national BBB ambitions and goals are hard to conceptualise within the local context, leading to the fact that long-term flood recovery in Amsterdam is fragmented and not prioritised. Responsibilities are divided across multiple actors, but there is no concrete plan on who is responsible during long-term recovery. Furthermore, financial and organisational capacity for recovery is lacking, despite the presence of knowledge on BBB. Rules and regulations mainly focus on prevention and short-term recovery, leaving long-term recovery largely undefined. In addition, policy discourse prioritises a rapid return to normal conditions and prevention, thereby limiting recovery as a moment for transformation.
The conclusion is therefore that governance arrangements in Amsterdam mainly constrain the operationalisation of BBB in long-term flood recovery. The main challenge is not a lack of knowledge, but a lack of governance structures that support implementation. As a result, recovery is primarily focused on restoring existing systems rather than improving them.
These findings show that long-term recovery needs to be better included in flood governance. This means that roles and responsibilities need to be clearer, and that actors need to work together more rather than separately. It is also important that there are enough resources and capacity to organise long-term recovery.
At the same time, this study is limited by the incomplete inclusion of relevant actors and its reliance on resilience strategies to assess BBB, which may blur the distinction between recovery and prevention. Moreover, a news reporter was present during the focus group, leading to fewer open comments. For future research, it would be useful to further develop practical BBB recovery strategies for different contexts, such as other cities or rural areas. It would also be valuable to bring actors together in workshops to better understand their roles and improve collaboration.
Remaking de Wallen
The future of Red Light Districts
Red-Light Districts have long been contested urban spaces where contradictory
values around morality, tolerance, safety, tourism, and economic interests coexist. In many cities, these areas are increasingly subject to transformations that aim to reduce nuisance, regulate tourism, and reshape urban identities, often raising concerns about the future position of sex work in the city. This research focuses on De Wallen, Amsterdam’s Red-Light District, which is currently facing renewed plans for transformation. De Wallen is a highly visible, multifunctional urban area where residential life, tourism, consumption, and regulated sex work intersect, yet remains characterised by persistent tensions related to liveability, safety, overcrowding, and deeply conflicting interpretations of its identity. Using a qualitative single-case study approach combining policy analysis, literature review, semi-structured interviews, and scenario planning, this research examines how the spatial characteristics of De Wallen and the value conflicts among its actors can inform future scenarios for the district. The
findings demonstrate that every proposed transformation involves unavoidable trade-offs: interventions that improve liveability tend to reduce the visibility, safety, and economic security of sex workers. Future scenarios for De Wallen are therefore only possible if these trade-offs are made transparent, marginalised voices are structurally included, and policy-makers explicitly acknowledge that spatial interventions always encode choices about whose values are prioritised. ...
values around morality, tolerance, safety, tourism, and economic interests coexist. In many cities, these areas are increasingly subject to transformations that aim to reduce nuisance, regulate tourism, and reshape urban identities, often raising concerns about the future position of sex work in the city. This research focuses on De Wallen, Amsterdam’s Red-Light District, which is currently facing renewed plans for transformation. De Wallen is a highly visible, multifunctional urban area where residential life, tourism, consumption, and regulated sex work intersect, yet remains characterised by persistent tensions related to liveability, safety, overcrowding, and deeply conflicting interpretations of its identity. Using a qualitative single-case study approach combining policy analysis, literature review, semi-structured interviews, and scenario planning, this research examines how the spatial characteristics of De Wallen and the value conflicts among its actors can inform future scenarios for the district. The
findings demonstrate that every proposed transformation involves unavoidable trade-offs: interventions that improve liveability tend to reduce the visibility, safety, and economic security of sex workers. Future scenarios for De Wallen are therefore only possible if these trade-offs are made transparent, marginalised voices are structurally included, and policy-makers explicitly acknowledge that spatial interventions always encode choices about whose values are prioritised. ...
Red-Light Districts have long been contested urban spaces where contradictory
values around morality, tolerance, safety, tourism, and economic interests coexist. In many cities, these areas are increasingly subject to transformations that aim to reduce nuisance, regulate tourism, and reshape urban identities, often raising concerns about the future position of sex work in the city. This research focuses on De Wallen, Amsterdam’s Red-Light District, which is currently facing renewed plans for transformation. De Wallen is a highly visible, multifunctional urban area where residential life, tourism, consumption, and regulated sex work intersect, yet remains characterised by persistent tensions related to liveability, safety, overcrowding, and deeply conflicting interpretations of its identity. Using a qualitative single-case study approach combining policy analysis, literature review, semi-structured interviews, and scenario planning, this research examines how the spatial characteristics of De Wallen and the value conflicts among its actors can inform future scenarios for the district. The
findings demonstrate that every proposed transformation involves unavoidable trade-offs: interventions that improve liveability tend to reduce the visibility, safety, and economic security of sex workers. Future scenarios for De Wallen are therefore only possible if these trade-offs are made transparent, marginalised voices are structurally included, and policy-makers explicitly acknowledge that spatial interventions always encode choices about whose values are prioritised.
values around morality, tolerance, safety, tourism, and economic interests coexist. In many cities, these areas are increasingly subject to transformations that aim to reduce nuisance, regulate tourism, and reshape urban identities, often raising concerns about the future position of sex work in the city. This research focuses on De Wallen, Amsterdam’s Red-Light District, which is currently facing renewed plans for transformation. De Wallen is a highly visible, multifunctional urban area where residential life, tourism, consumption, and regulated sex work intersect, yet remains characterised by persistent tensions related to liveability, safety, overcrowding, and deeply conflicting interpretations of its identity. Using a qualitative single-case study approach combining policy analysis, literature review, semi-structured interviews, and scenario planning, this research examines how the spatial characteristics of De Wallen and the value conflicts among its actors can inform future scenarios for the district. The
findings demonstrate that every proposed transformation involves unavoidable trade-offs: interventions that improve liveability tend to reduce the visibility, safety, and economic security of sex workers. Future scenarios for De Wallen are therefore only possible if these trade-offs are made transparent, marginalised voices are structurally included, and policy-makers explicitly acknowledge that spatial interventions always encode choices about whose values are prioritised.
Between plans and practice
Exploring how participation practices relate to evolving public space use under conditions of uncertainty in mixed-use urban development
This thesis explores how participation practices relate to evolving patterns of public space use under conditions of uncertainty in mixed-use urban development processes. Contemporary urban developments are increasingly characterised by long development timelines, multiple stakeholders and changing spatial and social conditions. In these contexts, participation is widely institutionalised as a mechanism to include user perspectives in planning and decision making. At the same time, public space is continuously shaped through everyday practices, temporary uses and evolving user groups, creating uncertainty regarding future forms of use and future users. This research examines how participation engages with these dynamic conditions and to what extent they reflect or overlook evolving patterns of public space use.
The study adopts a qualitative multiple case study approach, focusing on the redevelopment of Kronenburg in Amstelveen and the Marineterrein in Amsterdam, both cases are in the planning phase and are moving into the development phase. Both cases represent mixed-use urban developments characterised by uncertainty, temporality and changing public space dynamics. The research combines document analysis, semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders and street interviews with users of public space. Through qualitative content analysis and cross-case comparison, the research analyses how participation is organised, which users are represented and how participation related to everyday spatial practices and evolving development conditions
The findings demonstrate that participation practices are strongly influenced by the uncertain and evolving nature of mixed-use urban development. In Kronenburg, participation mainly operated in institutional and regulatory constraints, resulting in participation processes that were largely consultative and focused on existing stakeholders. Future users, particularly temporary and short-stay residents, remained difficult to represent, causing a structural mismatch between planned futures and current lived realities. In contrast, the Marineterrein demonstrated a more adaptive and iterative development approach where temporary use and experimentation actively informed participation and spatial decision-making. Here, informal practices such as swimming and recreational use became influential in shaping future planning discussions and public space ambitions.
Across both cases, the research reveals that participation primarily captures partial and time-bound representation of public space use. Participation processes tend to favour organised and currently present actors, while future users and evolving forms of use remain difficult to incorporate. At the same time, the findings show that adaptive and continuous participation approaches can create stronger alignment between planning processes and everyday spatial practices. The study therefore argues that participation in mixed-use urban development should not only be approached as a procedural planning tool, but also an ongoing and adaptive process capable of responding to uncertainty, temporality and evolving patterns of public space use over time.
...
The study adopts a qualitative multiple case study approach, focusing on the redevelopment of Kronenburg in Amstelveen and the Marineterrein in Amsterdam, both cases are in the planning phase and are moving into the development phase. Both cases represent mixed-use urban developments characterised by uncertainty, temporality and changing public space dynamics. The research combines document analysis, semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders and street interviews with users of public space. Through qualitative content analysis and cross-case comparison, the research analyses how participation is organised, which users are represented and how participation related to everyday spatial practices and evolving development conditions
The findings demonstrate that participation practices are strongly influenced by the uncertain and evolving nature of mixed-use urban development. In Kronenburg, participation mainly operated in institutional and regulatory constraints, resulting in participation processes that were largely consultative and focused on existing stakeholders. Future users, particularly temporary and short-stay residents, remained difficult to represent, causing a structural mismatch between planned futures and current lived realities. In contrast, the Marineterrein demonstrated a more adaptive and iterative development approach where temporary use and experimentation actively informed participation and spatial decision-making. Here, informal practices such as swimming and recreational use became influential in shaping future planning discussions and public space ambitions.
Across both cases, the research reveals that participation primarily captures partial and time-bound representation of public space use. Participation processes tend to favour organised and currently present actors, while future users and evolving forms of use remain difficult to incorporate. At the same time, the findings show that adaptive and continuous participation approaches can create stronger alignment between planning processes and everyday spatial practices. The study therefore argues that participation in mixed-use urban development should not only be approached as a procedural planning tool, but also an ongoing and adaptive process capable of responding to uncertainty, temporality and evolving patterns of public space use over time.
...
This thesis explores how participation practices relate to evolving patterns of public space use under conditions of uncertainty in mixed-use urban development processes. Contemporary urban developments are increasingly characterised by long development timelines, multiple stakeholders and changing spatial and social conditions. In these contexts, participation is widely institutionalised as a mechanism to include user perspectives in planning and decision making. At the same time, public space is continuously shaped through everyday practices, temporary uses and evolving user groups, creating uncertainty regarding future forms of use and future users. This research examines how participation engages with these dynamic conditions and to what extent they reflect or overlook evolving patterns of public space use.
The study adopts a qualitative multiple case study approach, focusing on the redevelopment of Kronenburg in Amstelveen and the Marineterrein in Amsterdam, both cases are in the planning phase and are moving into the development phase. Both cases represent mixed-use urban developments characterised by uncertainty, temporality and changing public space dynamics. The research combines document analysis, semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders and street interviews with users of public space. Through qualitative content analysis and cross-case comparison, the research analyses how participation is organised, which users are represented and how participation related to everyday spatial practices and evolving development conditions
The findings demonstrate that participation practices are strongly influenced by the uncertain and evolving nature of mixed-use urban development. In Kronenburg, participation mainly operated in institutional and regulatory constraints, resulting in participation processes that were largely consultative and focused on existing stakeholders. Future users, particularly temporary and short-stay residents, remained difficult to represent, causing a structural mismatch between planned futures and current lived realities. In contrast, the Marineterrein demonstrated a more adaptive and iterative development approach where temporary use and experimentation actively informed participation and spatial decision-making. Here, informal practices such as swimming and recreational use became influential in shaping future planning discussions and public space ambitions.
Across both cases, the research reveals that participation primarily captures partial and time-bound representation of public space use. Participation processes tend to favour organised and currently present actors, while future users and evolving forms of use remain difficult to incorporate. At the same time, the findings show that adaptive and continuous participation approaches can create stronger alignment between planning processes and everyday spatial practices. The study therefore argues that participation in mixed-use urban development should not only be approached as a procedural planning tool, but also an ongoing and adaptive process capable of responding to uncertainty, temporality and evolving patterns of public space use over time.
The study adopts a qualitative multiple case study approach, focusing on the redevelopment of Kronenburg in Amstelveen and the Marineterrein in Amsterdam, both cases are in the planning phase and are moving into the development phase. Both cases represent mixed-use urban developments characterised by uncertainty, temporality and changing public space dynamics. The research combines document analysis, semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders and street interviews with users of public space. Through qualitative content analysis and cross-case comparison, the research analyses how participation is organised, which users are represented and how participation related to everyday spatial practices and evolving development conditions
The findings demonstrate that participation practices are strongly influenced by the uncertain and evolving nature of mixed-use urban development. In Kronenburg, participation mainly operated in institutional and regulatory constraints, resulting in participation processes that were largely consultative and focused on existing stakeholders. Future users, particularly temporary and short-stay residents, remained difficult to represent, causing a structural mismatch between planned futures and current lived realities. In contrast, the Marineterrein demonstrated a more adaptive and iterative development approach where temporary use and experimentation actively informed participation and spatial decision-making. Here, informal practices such as swimming and recreational use became influential in shaping future planning discussions and public space ambitions.
Across both cases, the research reveals that participation primarily captures partial and time-bound representation of public space use. Participation processes tend to favour organised and currently present actors, while future users and evolving forms of use remain difficult to incorporate. At the same time, the findings show that adaptive and continuous participation approaches can create stronger alignment between planning processes and everyday spatial practices. The study therefore argues that participation in mixed-use urban development should not only be approached as a procedural planning tool, but also an ongoing and adaptive process capable of responding to uncertainty, temporality and evolving patterns of public space use over time.
Reimagining (Sports) Parks
A case study of Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Everybody engages in sports and physical activity, but the mechanisms underlying these activities are extremely complex. This study examines the systemic imbalance that exists in Amsterdam's sports landscape, where current, static, supply interacts with dynamic, changing user demand. It specifically looks into how programming (Software), governance structures (Orgware), and physical infrastructure (Hardware) interact to create bottlenecks.
By using a mixed-methods case-study approach that triangulates literature and policy review, expert interviews, and user surveys, the study evaluates the interrelationship between demand and supply within the metropolitan context. Key findings include that demand is shifting toward more flexible, informal, and individually organized sports. This shift leads to bottlenecks within the traditional, club-based organized sports landscape that is unique to the Netherlands. The analysis revealed several mismatches that lead to bottlenecks, most notably aging, monofunctional infrastructure, fragmented municipal governance, missing statutory foundations, and inadequate legal frameworks for sports.
To address these bottlenecks, eight design principles are suggested that prioritize multifunctionality, professionalize public space management, and strategically collaborate with commercial providers. This study contributes to the academic field by suggesting a strategic framework for policymakers, practitioners, and urban planners to align sports infrastructure with contemporary needs. The thesis concludes that there is no universal solution. Instead, it advocates for 'maatwerk' (context-specific customization) and the structural legal embedding of sport in spatial planning to guarantee its future place in the ever-densifying metropolitan city. ...
By using a mixed-methods case-study approach that triangulates literature and policy review, expert interviews, and user surveys, the study evaluates the interrelationship between demand and supply within the metropolitan context. Key findings include that demand is shifting toward more flexible, informal, and individually organized sports. This shift leads to bottlenecks within the traditional, club-based organized sports landscape that is unique to the Netherlands. The analysis revealed several mismatches that lead to bottlenecks, most notably aging, monofunctional infrastructure, fragmented municipal governance, missing statutory foundations, and inadequate legal frameworks for sports.
To address these bottlenecks, eight design principles are suggested that prioritize multifunctionality, professionalize public space management, and strategically collaborate with commercial providers. This study contributes to the academic field by suggesting a strategic framework for policymakers, practitioners, and urban planners to align sports infrastructure with contemporary needs. The thesis concludes that there is no universal solution. Instead, it advocates for 'maatwerk' (context-specific customization) and the structural legal embedding of sport in spatial planning to guarantee its future place in the ever-densifying metropolitan city. ...
Everybody engages in sports and physical activity, but the mechanisms underlying these activities are extremely complex. This study examines the systemic imbalance that exists in Amsterdam's sports landscape, where current, static, supply interacts with dynamic, changing user demand. It specifically looks into how programming (Software), governance structures (Orgware), and physical infrastructure (Hardware) interact to create bottlenecks.
By using a mixed-methods case-study approach that triangulates literature and policy review, expert interviews, and user surveys, the study evaluates the interrelationship between demand and supply within the metropolitan context. Key findings include that demand is shifting toward more flexible, informal, and individually organized sports. This shift leads to bottlenecks within the traditional, club-based organized sports landscape that is unique to the Netherlands. The analysis revealed several mismatches that lead to bottlenecks, most notably aging, monofunctional infrastructure, fragmented municipal governance, missing statutory foundations, and inadequate legal frameworks for sports.
To address these bottlenecks, eight design principles are suggested that prioritize multifunctionality, professionalize public space management, and strategically collaborate with commercial providers. This study contributes to the academic field by suggesting a strategic framework for policymakers, practitioners, and urban planners to align sports infrastructure with contemporary needs. The thesis concludes that there is no universal solution. Instead, it advocates for 'maatwerk' (context-specific customization) and the structural legal embedding of sport in spatial planning to guarantee its future place in the ever-densifying metropolitan city.
By using a mixed-methods case-study approach that triangulates literature and policy review, expert interviews, and user surveys, the study evaluates the interrelationship between demand and supply within the metropolitan context. Key findings include that demand is shifting toward more flexible, informal, and individually organized sports. This shift leads to bottlenecks within the traditional, club-based organized sports landscape that is unique to the Netherlands. The analysis revealed several mismatches that lead to bottlenecks, most notably aging, monofunctional infrastructure, fragmented municipal governance, missing statutory foundations, and inadequate legal frameworks for sports.
To address these bottlenecks, eight design principles are suggested that prioritize multifunctionality, professionalize public space management, and strategically collaborate with commercial providers. This study contributes to the academic field by suggesting a strategic framework for policymakers, practitioners, and urban planners to align sports infrastructure with contemporary needs. The thesis concludes that there is no universal solution. Instead, it advocates for 'maatwerk' (context-specific customization) and the structural legal embedding of sport in spatial planning to guarantee its future place in the ever-densifying metropolitan city.
Balancing Stakeholder Objectives in Private-Led Participation
Lessons from Dutch Urban Redevelopment
This thesis examines how developers balance stakeholder objectives in private-led participation processes within Dutch urban redevelopment. While private actors are increasingly expected to organise participation, existing literature predominantly focuses on public-led processes and offers limited insight into how to manage diverse participant objectives once conflict arises. Using a qualitative multiple-case study design, the research analyses three contrasting redevelopment projects: BoogieWood, De Kaai, and the Wildemanbuurt. The study investigates how different stakeholders define successful participation, how participatory practices are applied in practice, and which mechanisms enable or constrain the balancing of objectives. The findings show that successful participation is not achieved by balancing objectives alone. Instead, private-led participation must also meet procedural criteria, including clarity about scope and influence, inclusiveness, transparency in decision-making, and continuous feedback. These process-related conditions shape whether participation is perceived as legitimate, particularly when normative objectives are at stake. Substantive balancing occurs through approaches such as integrated design, package deals, mitigation or compensation, and offering a perspective on future gain. The opportunity to combine diverse objectives into shared solutions depends on the available decision space, which is greatest in early project phases and decreases as design and policy constraints become fixed. When decision space is limited, participation is more likely to result in non-decision-making or symbolic outcomes, increasing the importance of process-level and institutional outcomes. The study concludes that developers can achieve successful participation outcomes by embedding substantive balancing strategies within participation processes that support learning, expectation management, and trust-building, while recognising the structural constraints inherent to private-led development.
...
This thesis examines how developers balance stakeholder objectives in private-led participation processes within Dutch urban redevelopment. While private actors are increasingly expected to organise participation, existing literature predominantly focuses on public-led processes and offers limited insight into how to manage diverse participant objectives once conflict arises. Using a qualitative multiple-case study design, the research analyses three contrasting redevelopment projects: BoogieWood, De Kaai, and the Wildemanbuurt. The study investigates how different stakeholders define successful participation, how participatory practices are applied in practice, and which mechanisms enable or constrain the balancing of objectives. The findings show that successful participation is not achieved by balancing objectives alone. Instead, private-led participation must also meet procedural criteria, including clarity about scope and influence, inclusiveness, transparency in decision-making, and continuous feedback. These process-related conditions shape whether participation is perceived as legitimate, particularly when normative objectives are at stake. Substantive balancing occurs through approaches such as integrated design, package deals, mitigation or compensation, and offering a perspective on future gain. The opportunity to combine diverse objectives into shared solutions depends on the available decision space, which is greatest in early project phases and decreases as design and policy constraints become fixed. When decision space is limited, participation is more likely to result in non-decision-making or symbolic outcomes, increasing the importance of process-level and institutional outcomes. The study concludes that developers can achieve successful participation outcomes by embedding substantive balancing strategies within participation processes that support learning, expectation management, and trust-building, while recognising the structural constraints inherent to private-led development.
Beyond the Blueprint
Harnessing Lived Experience in citizen participation processes to advance gender mainstreaming and address the spatial inequalities of the Gendered City
The concept of the Gendered City—urban spaces where individual experiences, access to resources, and safety are deeply influenced by gender—has emerged from the field of feminist geography. Lived experiences are inherent to the Gendered City as they expose the everyday spatial inequalities between men and women. As the concept of the Gendered City gains traction in academia and urban planning, research increasingly seeks to address these spatial inequalities. Gender mainstreaming, a strategy aimed at integrating gender perspectives into all aspects of planning, emerges as a key approach. However, top-down applications of gender mainstreaming often fall short, hampered by vague definitions and limited insights into the actual spatial needs of women. This lack of clarity prevents a tangible understanding of gender mainstreaming’s impact on urban spaces. Meanwhile, emerging participatory planning processes offer potential for a grassroots approach and an opportunity for incorporating the lived experience of citizens into urban planning. However, the conventional participation processes often overlook equitable methods and fail to capture these nuanced realities. This research examines how gender mainstreaming can be advanced as a bottom-up spatial strategy through developing a citizen participation framework that addresses spatial inequalities of the Gendered City by centering lived experiences to. By employing an explorative approach from the field of participatory action research (PAR) qualitative research is conducted with experimental methods. The study examines the intersection of gender-based urban planning and participatory planning through expert interviews, workshops, exploratory walks, a case study and a quasi-experiment. The research identifies actionable strategies of to address gender issues in citizen participation which ultimately promote a more equitable urban landscape for everyone, regardless of their gender.
...
...
The concept of the Gendered City—urban spaces where individual experiences, access to resources, and safety are deeply influenced by gender—has emerged from the field of feminist geography. Lived experiences are inherent to the Gendered City as they expose the everyday spatial inequalities between men and women. As the concept of the Gendered City gains traction in academia and urban planning, research increasingly seeks to address these spatial inequalities. Gender mainstreaming, a strategy aimed at integrating gender perspectives into all aspects of planning, emerges as a key approach. However, top-down applications of gender mainstreaming often fall short, hampered by vague definitions and limited insights into the actual spatial needs of women. This lack of clarity prevents a tangible understanding of gender mainstreaming’s impact on urban spaces. Meanwhile, emerging participatory planning processes offer potential for a grassroots approach and an opportunity for incorporating the lived experience of citizens into urban planning. However, the conventional participation processes often overlook equitable methods and fail to capture these nuanced realities. This research examines how gender mainstreaming can be advanced as a bottom-up spatial strategy through developing a citizen participation framework that addresses spatial inequalities of the Gendered City by centering lived experiences to. By employing an explorative approach from the field of participatory action research (PAR) qualitative research is conducted with experimental methods. The study examines the intersection of gender-based urban planning and participatory planning through expert interviews, workshops, exploratory walks, a case study and a quasi-experiment. The research identifies actionable strategies of to address gender issues in citizen participation which ultimately promote a more equitable urban landscape for everyone, regardless of their gender.
The path to just urban green spaces
Exploring the role of spatial justice in the management of urban green spaces: a case study in the municipality of Maastricht
As cities in the Netherlands continue to densify, the availability and fair distribution of urban green spaces face pressure. While these green spaces play a crucial role in advancing socially sustainable urban development, their spatial justice remains underexplored in Dutch planning practices. Although municipal (policy) documents do increasingly address social inclusion, the extent to which these ambitions reflect in the lived experiences of residents is still unclear. Without a better understanding of this relationship, there is a risk that densification may worsen existing spatial injustices.
This study investigated how spatial justice is addressed at the municipal policy level, and how this is translated into residents’ experiences with urban green spaces through a case study design in the municipality of Maastricht. A mixed-methods approach was employed. First, the three dimensions of spatial justice were used to analyse relevant (policy) documents from the municipality of Maastricht. Second, a primarily quantitative survey captured residents’ experiences with spatial justice in relation to a specific urban green space, along with their usage of and satisfaction with this space. These two components were then compared to assess how there was alignment between policy intent and lived reality. Based on this analysis, the study offers recommendations to the municipality for improving the management of urban green spaces at the municipal (policy) level with regards to spatial justice.
The research ultimately sought to answer: “To what extent can urban green spaces be managed at the municipal level to ensure spatial justice within the built environment, thereby stimulating socially sustainable urban development?”
Through answering this research question, the thesis aimed to promote spatial justice as a core principle in urban green space management, supporting broader social sustainability goals. ...
This study investigated how spatial justice is addressed at the municipal policy level, and how this is translated into residents’ experiences with urban green spaces through a case study design in the municipality of Maastricht. A mixed-methods approach was employed. First, the three dimensions of spatial justice were used to analyse relevant (policy) documents from the municipality of Maastricht. Second, a primarily quantitative survey captured residents’ experiences with spatial justice in relation to a specific urban green space, along with their usage of and satisfaction with this space. These two components were then compared to assess how there was alignment between policy intent and lived reality. Based on this analysis, the study offers recommendations to the municipality for improving the management of urban green spaces at the municipal (policy) level with regards to spatial justice.
The research ultimately sought to answer: “To what extent can urban green spaces be managed at the municipal level to ensure spatial justice within the built environment, thereby stimulating socially sustainable urban development?”
Through answering this research question, the thesis aimed to promote spatial justice as a core principle in urban green space management, supporting broader social sustainability goals. ...
As cities in the Netherlands continue to densify, the availability and fair distribution of urban green spaces face pressure. While these green spaces play a crucial role in advancing socially sustainable urban development, their spatial justice remains underexplored in Dutch planning practices. Although municipal (policy) documents do increasingly address social inclusion, the extent to which these ambitions reflect in the lived experiences of residents is still unclear. Without a better understanding of this relationship, there is a risk that densification may worsen existing spatial injustices.
This study investigated how spatial justice is addressed at the municipal policy level, and how this is translated into residents’ experiences with urban green spaces through a case study design in the municipality of Maastricht. A mixed-methods approach was employed. First, the three dimensions of spatial justice were used to analyse relevant (policy) documents from the municipality of Maastricht. Second, a primarily quantitative survey captured residents’ experiences with spatial justice in relation to a specific urban green space, along with their usage of and satisfaction with this space. These two components were then compared to assess how there was alignment between policy intent and lived reality. Based on this analysis, the study offers recommendations to the municipality for improving the management of urban green spaces at the municipal (policy) level with regards to spatial justice.
The research ultimately sought to answer: “To what extent can urban green spaces be managed at the municipal level to ensure spatial justice within the built environment, thereby stimulating socially sustainable urban development?”
Through answering this research question, the thesis aimed to promote spatial justice as a core principle in urban green space management, supporting broader social sustainability goals.
This study investigated how spatial justice is addressed at the municipal policy level, and how this is translated into residents’ experiences with urban green spaces through a case study design in the municipality of Maastricht. A mixed-methods approach was employed. First, the three dimensions of spatial justice were used to analyse relevant (policy) documents from the municipality of Maastricht. Second, a primarily quantitative survey captured residents’ experiences with spatial justice in relation to a specific urban green space, along with their usage of and satisfaction with this space. These two components were then compared to assess how there was alignment between policy intent and lived reality. Based on this analysis, the study offers recommendations to the municipality for improving the management of urban green spaces at the municipal (policy) level with regards to spatial justice.
The research ultimately sought to answer: “To what extent can urban green spaces be managed at the municipal level to ensure spatial justice within the built environment, thereby stimulating socially sustainable urban development?”
Through answering this research question, the thesis aimed to promote spatial justice as a core principle in urban green space management, supporting broader social sustainability goals.
Organizing Inclusive and Sustainable Development
Participation as a tool for inclusive and sustainable urban development
Ensuring inclusive urban development requires a deep understanding of how participatory processes are shaped by the perspectives of practitioners, residents, and policy frameworks. While environmental sustainability remains a key aspect of urban resilience, this research focuses on the often-overlooked social dimension, particularly how participation is conceptualized, facilitated, and experienced across different stakeholder groups.
This research examines how participatory approaches can be designed and implemented to support inclusive and sustainable development. It emphasizes the importance of aligning participatory practices with the scale of a project, the characteristics of local communities, and the intended goals of the intervention. Rather than focusing on environmental interventions, this study examines how institutional goals, practical challenges, and community dynamics influence participation itself.
Using a multiple-case study approach, this research compares how municipalities and other stakeholders perceive and apply participatory approaches in various urban contexts. It examines three key aspects: SQ.1 How do municipalities and practitioners view participation in urban development? SQ.2 What are the common barriers and methods regarding public participation in practice in the case-studied areas? SQ.3 What can be learned from the case study areas for a set of guidelines for a durable and inclusive participatory approach selection and implementation?
Through qualitative interviews with both experts and residents, this study offers a comparative analysis of how participation is framed in policy, how it is implemented by practitioners, and how communities experience it. The findings aim to support municipalities and other actors in designing participatory processes that are not only inclusive but also responsive to real-world challenges and community needs. This contributes to more equitable and socially sustainable urban development.
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This research examines how participatory approaches can be designed and implemented to support inclusive and sustainable development. It emphasizes the importance of aligning participatory practices with the scale of a project, the characteristics of local communities, and the intended goals of the intervention. Rather than focusing on environmental interventions, this study examines how institutional goals, practical challenges, and community dynamics influence participation itself.
Using a multiple-case study approach, this research compares how municipalities and other stakeholders perceive and apply participatory approaches in various urban contexts. It examines three key aspects: SQ.1 How do municipalities and practitioners view participation in urban development? SQ.2 What are the common barriers and methods regarding public participation in practice in the case-studied areas? SQ.3 What can be learned from the case study areas for a set of guidelines for a durable and inclusive participatory approach selection and implementation?
Through qualitative interviews with both experts and residents, this study offers a comparative analysis of how participation is framed in policy, how it is implemented by practitioners, and how communities experience it. The findings aim to support municipalities and other actors in designing participatory processes that are not only inclusive but also responsive to real-world challenges and community needs. This contributes to more equitable and socially sustainable urban development.
...
Ensuring inclusive urban development requires a deep understanding of how participatory processes are shaped by the perspectives of practitioners, residents, and policy frameworks. While environmental sustainability remains a key aspect of urban resilience, this research focuses on the often-overlooked social dimension, particularly how participation is conceptualized, facilitated, and experienced across different stakeholder groups.
This research examines how participatory approaches can be designed and implemented to support inclusive and sustainable development. It emphasizes the importance of aligning participatory practices with the scale of a project, the characteristics of local communities, and the intended goals of the intervention. Rather than focusing on environmental interventions, this study examines how institutional goals, practical challenges, and community dynamics influence participation itself.
Using a multiple-case study approach, this research compares how municipalities and other stakeholders perceive and apply participatory approaches in various urban contexts. It examines three key aspects: SQ.1 How do municipalities and practitioners view participation in urban development? SQ.2 What are the common barriers and methods regarding public participation in practice in the case-studied areas? SQ.3 What can be learned from the case study areas for a set of guidelines for a durable and inclusive participatory approach selection and implementation?
Through qualitative interviews with both experts and residents, this study offers a comparative analysis of how participation is framed in policy, how it is implemented by practitioners, and how communities experience it. The findings aim to support municipalities and other actors in designing participatory processes that are not only inclusive but also responsive to real-world challenges and community needs. This contributes to more equitable and socially sustainable urban development.
This research examines how participatory approaches can be designed and implemented to support inclusive and sustainable development. It emphasizes the importance of aligning participatory practices with the scale of a project, the characteristics of local communities, and the intended goals of the intervention. Rather than focusing on environmental interventions, this study examines how institutional goals, practical challenges, and community dynamics influence participation itself.
Using a multiple-case study approach, this research compares how municipalities and other stakeholders perceive and apply participatory approaches in various urban contexts. It examines three key aspects: SQ.1 How do municipalities and practitioners view participation in urban development? SQ.2 What are the common barriers and methods regarding public participation in practice in the case-studied areas? SQ.3 What can be learned from the case study areas for a set of guidelines for a durable and inclusive participatory approach selection and implementation?
Through qualitative interviews with both experts and residents, this study offers a comparative analysis of how participation is framed in policy, how it is implemented by practitioners, and how communities experience it. The findings aim to support municipalities and other actors in designing participatory processes that are not only inclusive but also responsive to real-world challenges and community needs. This contributes to more equitable and socially sustainable urban development.
Reimaginig Public Space
Through the embeddedness of community-driven temporary uses in urban regeneration
Urban regeneration has historically prioritized financial value over the socio-cultural needs of communities, leading to feelings of disenfranchisement among citizens and taking matters into their own hands in the public space. This research proposal addresses the critical gap in understanding how community organisations can use urban regeneration as a way to embed their temporary use in the public space.
The study aims to explore the added value of community initiated temporary uses, identify barriers and opportunities faced by these organizations, and examine the impact of various relationships and alliances on their involvement in decision-making processes regarding public space.
The research is structured around three key questions: (SQ1) What is the embeddedness of a temporary use in the public space? (SQ2) What is the added value of community initiated temporary uses to the public space? (SQ3) What barriers and opportunities do community organisations face during the design and decision making process around the regeneration of public space? Utilizing qualitative research design, the study will include literature reviews, case studies, observations, and interviews with relevant stakeholders.
The findings are expected to provide practical tools that empower citizens and community organizations fostering a collaborative approach to public space regeneration. Ultimately, this research seeks to contribute to the discourse on the value of public space and community empowerment, highlighting the importance of inclusive decision-making in the public urban landscape.
...
The study aims to explore the added value of community initiated temporary uses, identify barriers and opportunities faced by these organizations, and examine the impact of various relationships and alliances on their involvement in decision-making processes regarding public space.
The research is structured around three key questions: (SQ1) What is the embeddedness of a temporary use in the public space? (SQ2) What is the added value of community initiated temporary uses to the public space? (SQ3) What barriers and opportunities do community organisations face during the design and decision making process around the regeneration of public space? Utilizing qualitative research design, the study will include literature reviews, case studies, observations, and interviews with relevant stakeholders.
The findings are expected to provide practical tools that empower citizens and community organizations fostering a collaborative approach to public space regeneration. Ultimately, this research seeks to contribute to the discourse on the value of public space and community empowerment, highlighting the importance of inclusive decision-making in the public urban landscape.
...
Urban regeneration has historically prioritized financial value over the socio-cultural needs of communities, leading to feelings of disenfranchisement among citizens and taking matters into their own hands in the public space. This research proposal addresses the critical gap in understanding how community organisations can use urban regeneration as a way to embed their temporary use in the public space.
The study aims to explore the added value of community initiated temporary uses, identify barriers and opportunities faced by these organizations, and examine the impact of various relationships and alliances on their involvement in decision-making processes regarding public space.
The research is structured around three key questions: (SQ1) What is the embeddedness of a temporary use in the public space? (SQ2) What is the added value of community initiated temporary uses to the public space? (SQ3) What barriers and opportunities do community organisations face during the design and decision making process around the regeneration of public space? Utilizing qualitative research design, the study will include literature reviews, case studies, observations, and interviews with relevant stakeholders.
The findings are expected to provide practical tools that empower citizens and community organizations fostering a collaborative approach to public space regeneration. Ultimately, this research seeks to contribute to the discourse on the value of public space and community empowerment, highlighting the importance of inclusive decision-making in the public urban landscape.
The study aims to explore the added value of community initiated temporary uses, identify barriers and opportunities faced by these organizations, and examine the impact of various relationships and alliances on their involvement in decision-making processes regarding public space.
The research is structured around three key questions: (SQ1) What is the embeddedness of a temporary use in the public space? (SQ2) What is the added value of community initiated temporary uses to the public space? (SQ3) What barriers and opportunities do community organisations face during the design and decision making process around the regeneration of public space? Utilizing qualitative research design, the study will include literature reviews, case studies, observations, and interviews with relevant stakeholders.
The findings are expected to provide practical tools that empower citizens and community organizations fostering a collaborative approach to public space regeneration. Ultimately, this research seeks to contribute to the discourse on the value of public space and community empowerment, highlighting the importance of inclusive decision-making in the public urban landscape.
From Vacancy to Interim Use
Tracing the Process of Temporary Urbanism in Dutch Brownfields
This thesis addresses the question “How and under what conditions does temporary urbanism emerge and develop within the transition phase of Dutch brownfield redevelopment toward long-term use?” While its capacity to activate vacant sites is widely acknowledged, the processes through which it emerges, evolves and anchors remains poorly understood. Through a comparative multiple-case study of four Dutch brownfields, drawing on document analysis, field observations, and eight stakeholder interviews, this research employs a two-stage analytical framework. First, each site’s initial activation is categorized as either unstructured (coincidental, grassroots driven) or strategic (policy-embedded, facilitated). Second, strategic trajectories are traced through the lens of an existing three-phase model Test, Growth, and Development, adding an initial “Coincidental” phase to capture informal grassroots activations. A complementary nine-condition framework (encompassing location, physical and environmental factors, ownership, regulation, finance, socio-cultural context, risk perceptions and interim utilization is then applied to identify enablers and barriers to temporary urbanism. Findings reveal that three sites (Centrale Harculo, Locatie Sportlaan and Bajesdorp) successfully transitioned through all four phases, progressing from ad-hoc, bottom-up activations to small-scale trials, investment-driven scaling, and ultimately strategic integration into long-term redevelopment. In contrast, Landgoed Steenenburg remained mired in the Coincidental phase for nineteen years, sustained only by informal anti-squat housing and intermittent events, due to financial, ecological, and governance constraints. Across all cases, factors such as site location, regulatory context, ownership structure and socio-cultural dynamics alternately facilitated or hindered temporary uses. Moreover, supplementary conditions, including ownership orientation and site image, proved critical in embedding temporary urbanism within broader development ambitions. The study concludes that temporary urbanism delivers enduring value only when it is purposefully embedded within formal redevelopment processes. Key prerequisites include a clear long-term vision from the landowner, timely and coordinated decision-making and an engaged intermediary actor to bridge interim activities with permanent development goals.
...
This thesis addresses the question “How and under what conditions does temporary urbanism emerge and develop within the transition phase of Dutch brownfield redevelopment toward long-term use?” While its capacity to activate vacant sites is widely acknowledged, the processes through which it emerges, evolves and anchors remains poorly understood. Through a comparative multiple-case study of four Dutch brownfields, drawing on document analysis, field observations, and eight stakeholder interviews, this research employs a two-stage analytical framework. First, each site’s initial activation is categorized as either unstructured (coincidental, grassroots driven) or strategic (policy-embedded, facilitated). Second, strategic trajectories are traced through the lens of an existing three-phase model Test, Growth, and Development, adding an initial “Coincidental” phase to capture informal grassroots activations. A complementary nine-condition framework (encompassing location, physical and environmental factors, ownership, regulation, finance, socio-cultural context, risk perceptions and interim utilization is then applied to identify enablers and barriers to temporary urbanism. Findings reveal that three sites (Centrale Harculo, Locatie Sportlaan and Bajesdorp) successfully transitioned through all four phases, progressing from ad-hoc, bottom-up activations to small-scale trials, investment-driven scaling, and ultimately strategic integration into long-term redevelopment. In contrast, Landgoed Steenenburg remained mired in the Coincidental phase for nineteen years, sustained only by informal anti-squat housing and intermittent events, due to financial, ecological, and governance constraints. Across all cases, factors such as site location, regulatory context, ownership structure and socio-cultural dynamics alternately facilitated or hindered temporary uses. Moreover, supplementary conditions, including ownership orientation and site image, proved critical in embedding temporary urbanism within broader development ambitions. The study concludes that temporary urbanism delivers enduring value only when it is purposefully embedded within formal redevelopment processes. Key prerequisites include a clear long-term vision from the landowner, timely and coordinated decision-making and an engaged intermediary actor to bridge interim activities with permanent development goals.
This P4 report investigates how participatory practices can address conflicting stakeholder interests during the removal of curbside parking, a key challenge in the transition towards low-car cities. While literature often highlights the benefits of parking removal for traffic flow, safety and urban livability, such interventions frequently generate resistance rooted in competing values and lived experiences. Through case studies in Leiden, Rotterdam and Amsterdam as well as six qualitative interviews with both organizers and participants, this research identifies recurring value conflicts: spatial, temporal, economic and equity-related and explores how participation can be used to manage them.
The findings demonstrate that, while participation does not resolve conflict, it can facilitate constructive negotiation when certain conditions are met. These include trust, clear communication, meaningful feedback and a well-defined scope. The study provides an empirical framework of nine enabling conditions for participatory conflict management, reinterpreting participation not as a tool for consensus, but as a platform for navigating value tensions. This supports a shift towards more inclusive and reflexive planning practices, especially relevant under the legal requirements of the new Dutch Environment and Planning Act.
Key Message: Participation can support urban transitions not by eliminating disagreement, but by creating the conditions for fair and open negotiation of conflicting interests.
Keywords: Participatory planning, stakeholder conflict, curb parking removal, low-car city, urban governance, value regimes, Arnstein’s ladder, conflict management, public space, participation conditions, urban sustainability, trust, legitimacy
...
The findings demonstrate that, while participation does not resolve conflict, it can facilitate constructive negotiation when certain conditions are met. These include trust, clear communication, meaningful feedback and a well-defined scope. The study provides an empirical framework of nine enabling conditions for participatory conflict management, reinterpreting participation not as a tool for consensus, but as a platform for navigating value tensions. This supports a shift towards more inclusive and reflexive planning practices, especially relevant under the legal requirements of the new Dutch Environment and Planning Act.
Key Message: Participation can support urban transitions not by eliminating disagreement, but by creating the conditions for fair and open negotiation of conflicting interests.
Keywords: Participatory planning, stakeholder conflict, curb parking removal, low-car city, urban governance, value regimes, Arnstein’s ladder, conflict management, public space, participation conditions, urban sustainability, trust, legitimacy
...
This P4 report investigates how participatory practices can address conflicting stakeholder interests during the removal of curbside parking, a key challenge in the transition towards low-car cities. While literature often highlights the benefits of parking removal for traffic flow, safety and urban livability, such interventions frequently generate resistance rooted in competing values and lived experiences. Through case studies in Leiden, Rotterdam and Amsterdam as well as six qualitative interviews with both organizers and participants, this research identifies recurring value conflicts: spatial, temporal, economic and equity-related and explores how participation can be used to manage them.
The findings demonstrate that, while participation does not resolve conflict, it can facilitate constructive negotiation when certain conditions are met. These include trust, clear communication, meaningful feedback and a well-defined scope. The study provides an empirical framework of nine enabling conditions for participatory conflict management, reinterpreting participation not as a tool for consensus, but as a platform for navigating value tensions. This supports a shift towards more inclusive and reflexive planning practices, especially relevant under the legal requirements of the new Dutch Environment and Planning Act.
Key Message: Participation can support urban transitions not by eliminating disagreement, but by creating the conditions for fair and open negotiation of conflicting interests.
Keywords: Participatory planning, stakeholder conflict, curb parking removal, low-car city, urban governance, value regimes, Arnstein’s ladder, conflict management, public space, participation conditions, urban sustainability, trust, legitimacy
The findings demonstrate that, while participation does not resolve conflict, it can facilitate constructive negotiation when certain conditions are met. These include trust, clear communication, meaningful feedback and a well-defined scope. The study provides an empirical framework of nine enabling conditions for participatory conflict management, reinterpreting participation not as a tool for consensus, but as a platform for navigating value tensions. This supports a shift towards more inclusive and reflexive planning practices, especially relevant under the legal requirements of the new Dutch Environment and Planning Act.
Key Message: Participation can support urban transitions not by eliminating disagreement, but by creating the conditions for fair and open negotiation of conflicting interests.
Keywords: Participatory planning, stakeholder conflict, curb parking removal, low-car city, urban governance, value regimes, Arnstein’s ladder, conflict management, public space, participation conditions, urban sustainability, trust, legitimacy
A level playing field
Improving social inclusion of public outdoor sports facilities for girls aged nine to twelve from a municipal point of view
In the Netherlands, approximately 700,000 individuals do not feel socially included in the sports sector (Ministerie van Algemene Zaken, 2014). Sports participation offers physical, mental and social health benefits (Vuori, 1987). Public sports facilities, defined as publicly available built facilities or areas designed to encourage physical activity (Limstrand, 2008), should enable everyone to participate. However, a significant gap exists between ideal utilisation and actual utilisation, where certain groups are underrepresented (Gao et al., 2022). Girls aged nine to twelve are particularly underrepresented in sports (Collins & Kay, 2014) and more likely to be socially excluded from public spaces (Zimm, 2019). This suggests a mismatch between public outdoor sports facilities and the needs of this group. This research aims to address this mismatch by answering the following research question: ‘What measures can municipalities take to make public outdoor sporting facilities more socially inclusive for girls aged nine to twelve?’. A literature review will identify factors influencing social inclusion of public sports facilities. After identification of factors, Beweegpark Kraaiennest is introduced and assessed through observations and discussions with girls aged nine to twelve based on the photovoice technique to evaluate the current level of social inclusion and utilisation, highlighting areas of improvement of the public sports facility. These insights inform a focus group and interviews, where professionals share their perspectives on the topics to create concrete and actionable measures. Ultimately, this research aims to provide municipalities with practical measures to enhance the social inclusion of public outdoor sports facilities for girls aged nine to twelve, offering valuable guidance for municipal policymakers in the sports sector and addressing a gap in literature about increasing social inclusion of sports facilities. ...
In the Netherlands, approximately 700,000 individuals do not feel socially included in the sports sector (Ministerie van Algemene Zaken, 2014). Sports participation offers physical, mental and social health benefits (Vuori, 1987). Public sports facilities, defined as publicly available built facilities or areas designed to encourage physical activity (Limstrand, 2008), should enable everyone to participate. However, a significant gap exists between ideal utilisation and actual utilisation, where certain groups are underrepresented (Gao et al., 2022). Girls aged nine to twelve are particularly underrepresented in sports (Collins & Kay, 2014) and more likely to be socially excluded from public spaces (Zimm, 2019). This suggests a mismatch between public outdoor sports facilities and the needs of this group. This research aims to address this mismatch by answering the following research question: ‘What measures can municipalities take to make public outdoor sporting facilities more socially inclusive for girls aged nine to twelve?’. A literature review will identify factors influencing social inclusion of public sports facilities. After identification of factors, Beweegpark Kraaiennest is introduced and assessed through observations and discussions with girls aged nine to twelve based on the photovoice technique to evaluate the current level of social inclusion and utilisation, highlighting areas of improvement of the public sports facility. These insights inform a focus group and interviews, where professionals share their perspectives on the topics to create concrete and actionable measures. Ultimately, this research aims to provide municipalities with practical measures to enhance the social inclusion of public outdoor sports facilities for girls aged nine to twelve, offering valuable guidance for municipal policymakers in the sports sector and addressing a gap in literature about increasing social inclusion of sports facilities.
This research investigates the role of digital technologies in improving the adaptive reuse of built heritage through more informed, values-driven, and sustainable decision making. It introduces the Digital Adaptive Reuse of Built Heritage (DARBH) framework, developed to assist practitioners in selecting and implementing appropriate digital technologies throughout the different stages of adaptive reuse projects. The framework is structured around five functional pillars: Capture, Create, Conserve, Communicate, and Control, which together articulate how digital technologies contribute to the understanding, transformation, and management of heritage assets.
A mixed-methods research design was used to construct and validate the framework. The study began with a systematic literature review to identify trends, gaps, and challenges in the application of digital technologies within heritage reuse. This was followed by an expert workshop involving professionals from architecture, engineering, and digital innovation sectors, complemented by a case study of the Paradiso music venue in Amsterdam. Insights from these activities were summarized and examined through a SWOT analysis to assess the feasibility, barriers, and enablers of technology adoption across various project contexts. The findings indicate that accessible technologies, such as 3D scanning, photogrammetry, environmental sensors, and collaborative data environments, are gradually integrated into practice, mainly due to their ease of use and clear value delivery. On the other hand, more complex systems, including digital twins and broad HBIM models, face significant barriers related to cost, required expertise, interoperability, and unclear governance structures. The DARBH framework responds to these challenges by providing a structured, step-by-step methodology that links technological functions with project objectives, heritage values, and stakeholder engagement processes.
Overall, this research provides a theoretical and practical roadmap for integrating digital technologies into the adaptive reuse of built heritage. It positions digital technologies not only as a technical solution but as a strategic enabler that supports decision making based on evidence, facilitates value alignment, and improves the long term sustainability of heritage interventions across cultural, social, and environmental dimensions.
...
A mixed-methods research design was used to construct and validate the framework. The study began with a systematic literature review to identify trends, gaps, and challenges in the application of digital technologies within heritage reuse. This was followed by an expert workshop involving professionals from architecture, engineering, and digital innovation sectors, complemented by a case study of the Paradiso music venue in Amsterdam. Insights from these activities were summarized and examined through a SWOT analysis to assess the feasibility, barriers, and enablers of technology adoption across various project contexts. The findings indicate that accessible technologies, such as 3D scanning, photogrammetry, environmental sensors, and collaborative data environments, are gradually integrated into practice, mainly due to their ease of use and clear value delivery. On the other hand, more complex systems, including digital twins and broad HBIM models, face significant barriers related to cost, required expertise, interoperability, and unclear governance structures. The DARBH framework responds to these challenges by providing a structured, step-by-step methodology that links technological functions with project objectives, heritage values, and stakeholder engagement processes.
Overall, this research provides a theoretical and practical roadmap for integrating digital technologies into the adaptive reuse of built heritage. It positions digital technologies not only as a technical solution but as a strategic enabler that supports decision making based on evidence, facilitates value alignment, and improves the long term sustainability of heritage interventions across cultural, social, and environmental dimensions.
...
This research investigates the role of digital technologies in improving the adaptive reuse of built heritage through more informed, values-driven, and sustainable decision making. It introduces the Digital Adaptive Reuse of Built Heritage (DARBH) framework, developed to assist practitioners in selecting and implementing appropriate digital technologies throughout the different stages of adaptive reuse projects. The framework is structured around five functional pillars: Capture, Create, Conserve, Communicate, and Control, which together articulate how digital technologies contribute to the understanding, transformation, and management of heritage assets.
A mixed-methods research design was used to construct and validate the framework. The study began with a systematic literature review to identify trends, gaps, and challenges in the application of digital technologies within heritage reuse. This was followed by an expert workshop involving professionals from architecture, engineering, and digital innovation sectors, complemented by a case study of the Paradiso music venue in Amsterdam. Insights from these activities were summarized and examined through a SWOT analysis to assess the feasibility, barriers, and enablers of technology adoption across various project contexts. The findings indicate that accessible technologies, such as 3D scanning, photogrammetry, environmental sensors, and collaborative data environments, are gradually integrated into practice, mainly due to their ease of use and clear value delivery. On the other hand, more complex systems, including digital twins and broad HBIM models, face significant barriers related to cost, required expertise, interoperability, and unclear governance structures. The DARBH framework responds to these challenges by providing a structured, step-by-step methodology that links technological functions with project objectives, heritage values, and stakeholder engagement processes.
Overall, this research provides a theoretical and practical roadmap for integrating digital technologies into the adaptive reuse of built heritage. It positions digital technologies not only as a technical solution but as a strategic enabler that supports decision making based on evidence, facilitates value alignment, and improves the long term sustainability of heritage interventions across cultural, social, and environmental dimensions.
A mixed-methods research design was used to construct and validate the framework. The study began with a systematic literature review to identify trends, gaps, and challenges in the application of digital technologies within heritage reuse. This was followed by an expert workshop involving professionals from architecture, engineering, and digital innovation sectors, complemented by a case study of the Paradiso music venue in Amsterdam. Insights from these activities were summarized and examined through a SWOT analysis to assess the feasibility, barriers, and enablers of technology adoption across various project contexts. The findings indicate that accessible technologies, such as 3D scanning, photogrammetry, environmental sensors, and collaborative data environments, are gradually integrated into practice, mainly due to their ease of use and clear value delivery. On the other hand, more complex systems, including digital twins and broad HBIM models, face significant barriers related to cost, required expertise, interoperability, and unclear governance structures. The DARBH framework responds to these challenges by providing a structured, step-by-step methodology that links technological functions with project objectives, heritage values, and stakeholder engagement processes.
Overall, this research provides a theoretical and practical roadmap for integrating digital technologies into the adaptive reuse of built heritage. It positions digital technologies not only as a technical solution but as a strategic enabler that supports decision making based on evidence, facilitates value alignment, and improves the long term sustainability of heritage interventions across cultural, social, and environmental dimensions.
This research examines to what extent policy arrangements of the local energy transition in two urban vulnerable neighbourhoods in the Netherlands are just. Even though national climate ambitions have been established, implementation of measures largely depends on municipalities and local actors. Using the Policy Arrangement Approach, this study analyses discourses, actors, rules of the game, and resources in two case studies: Venserpolder (Amsterdam) and BospolderTussendijken (Rotterdam). The policy arrangements in both neighbourhoods were analysed through the lens of distributional, procedural, and recognition justice to assess the justness of the local energy transitions. The findings show that both municipalities follow a top-down approach but differ in their governance practices. In Venserpolder, limited resident engagement, dependence on large-scale institutional actors, and communication that is mainly focussed on homeowners’ associations (VvEs) constrain just and successful outcomes of the local energy transition. In Bospolder-Tussendijken, the energy transition is integrated with a broader resilience agenda and is grounded in an Asset-Based Community Development discourse which fosters stronger procedural and recognition justice. Nevertheless, challenges remain for the inclusion of vulnerable groups. Overall, this study highlights the need for more inclusive governance practices and the combination of strong institutional coordination with community participation, just resource distribution, and recognition of diverse social contexts in order for national climate ambitions to be achieved in a just way.
...
This research examines to what extent policy arrangements of the local energy transition in two urban vulnerable neighbourhoods in the Netherlands are just. Even though national climate ambitions have been established, implementation of measures largely depends on municipalities and local actors. Using the Policy Arrangement Approach, this study analyses discourses, actors, rules of the game, and resources in two case studies: Venserpolder (Amsterdam) and BospolderTussendijken (Rotterdam). The policy arrangements in both neighbourhoods were analysed through the lens of distributional, procedural, and recognition justice to assess the justness of the local energy transitions. The findings show that both municipalities follow a top-down approach but differ in their governance practices. In Venserpolder, limited resident engagement, dependence on large-scale institutional actors, and communication that is mainly focussed on homeowners’ associations (VvEs) constrain just and successful outcomes of the local energy transition. In Bospolder-Tussendijken, the energy transition is integrated with a broader resilience agenda and is grounded in an Asset-Based Community Development discourse which fosters stronger procedural and recognition justice. Nevertheless, challenges remain for the inclusion of vulnerable groups. Overall, this study highlights the need for more inclusive governance practices and the combination of strong institutional coordination with community participation, just resource distribution, and recognition of diverse social contexts in order for national climate ambitions to be achieved in a just way.
Enabling environment for participative urban regeneration in the Chinese context
From multi-case study of micro-regeneration projects in Shanghai
Participative urban regeneration is a growing concept in the development of urbanism. There are also other terms describing a similar phenomenon, such as inclusive urban regeneration, bottom-up urbanism, community self-organization and organic planning. The motivation behind this trend is to seek a sustainable way to regenerate the current built environment, which has given rise to community involvement and bottom-up initiatives. In China, where planning has traditionally been top-down, participative approaches are also emerging, exemplified by Shanghai's micro-regeneration initiatives. These endeavors focus on small-scale interventions, where smaller collectives and individuals playing pivotal roles. However, development of micro-regeneration is still in an early stage. This research, through case study analyses and comparisons, seeks to explore the participatory experience in recent micro-regeneration projects in Shanghai, aiming to bridge the gap between practical and guideline-oriented approaches in urban regeneration governance and provide generalized favorable conditions for optimizing participative approaches, thereby contributing to the discourse on urban regeneration in both Chinese and Western contexts.
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Participative urban regeneration is a growing concept in the development of urbanism. There are also other terms describing a similar phenomenon, such as inclusive urban regeneration, bottom-up urbanism, community self-organization and organic planning. The motivation behind this trend is to seek a sustainable way to regenerate the current built environment, which has given rise to community involvement and bottom-up initiatives. In China, where planning has traditionally been top-down, participative approaches are also emerging, exemplified by Shanghai's micro-regeneration initiatives. These endeavors focus on small-scale interventions, where smaller collectives and individuals playing pivotal roles. However, development of micro-regeneration is still in an early stage. This research, through case study analyses and comparisons, seeks to explore the participatory experience in recent micro-regeneration projects in Shanghai, aiming to bridge the gap between practical and guideline-oriented approaches in urban regeneration governance and provide generalized favorable conditions for optimizing participative approaches, thereby contributing to the discourse on urban regeneration in both Chinese and Western contexts.
Building flood resilience
A case study on climate-driven fluvial flooding in vulnerable neighbourhoods
Despite extensive research on flood governance, there remains a significant gap in understanding how these strategies specifically address socioeconomic vulnerability within urban neighbourhoods. This thesis, conducted at the Delft University of Technology, examines flood governance strategies in the socioeconomically vulnerable neighbourhoods of Krispijn and De Staart in Dordrecht, the Netherlands. It critically assesses the government-initiated flood resilience strategies, investigating both the institutional approach and the community perception, examining their effectiveness in preparing and empowering the vulnerable communities, their ability not only to mitigate the immediate effects of flooding, but also to address the underlying vulnerabilities that exacerbate the community's susceptibility to such disasters. The research uses a qualitative methodology, combining theoretical exploration with empirical investigation through a detailed case study approach. Data collection included reviews of secondary sources, policy documents, and primary data collected by semi-structured interviews and questionnaires with key stakeholders such as institutional actors and community members. Findings indicate that while Dordrecht's flood management strategies are developed, their inclusiveness and effectiveness varies significantly due to socioeconomic diversity and characteristics of the neighbourhoods. Although these strategies generally address immediate flood risks, they often overlook deeper socioeconomic vulnerabilities. In addition, this study highlights the critical need for increased community engagement and the inclusiveness of vulnerable groups’ needs into governance processes, which is essential for improving the resilience of flood management practices. Recommendations for refining flood governance emphasise the importance of involving stakeholders, such as citizens, in both planning and implementation, tailoring interventions to specific community needs, and strengthening the adaptive capacity of governance frameworks to effectively incorporate emerging risks and community feedback. This thesis concludes that for flood resilience strategies in Dordrecht to be truly effective, a deeper integration with the community-specific needs and vulnerabilities is imperative, underscoring the need for a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to flood resilience.
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Despite extensive research on flood governance, there remains a significant gap in understanding how these strategies specifically address socioeconomic vulnerability within urban neighbourhoods. This thesis, conducted at the Delft University of Technology, examines flood governance strategies in the socioeconomically vulnerable neighbourhoods of Krispijn and De Staart in Dordrecht, the Netherlands. It critically assesses the government-initiated flood resilience strategies, investigating both the institutional approach and the community perception, examining their effectiveness in preparing and empowering the vulnerable communities, their ability not only to mitigate the immediate effects of flooding, but also to address the underlying vulnerabilities that exacerbate the community's susceptibility to such disasters. The research uses a qualitative methodology, combining theoretical exploration with empirical investigation through a detailed case study approach. Data collection included reviews of secondary sources, policy documents, and primary data collected by semi-structured interviews and questionnaires with key stakeholders such as institutional actors and community members. Findings indicate that while Dordrecht's flood management strategies are developed, their inclusiveness and effectiveness varies significantly due to socioeconomic diversity and characteristics of the neighbourhoods. Although these strategies generally address immediate flood risks, they often overlook deeper socioeconomic vulnerabilities. In addition, this study highlights the critical need for increased community engagement and the inclusiveness of vulnerable groups’ needs into governance processes, which is essential for improving the resilience of flood management practices. Recommendations for refining flood governance emphasise the importance of involving stakeholders, such as citizens, in both planning and implementation, tailoring interventions to specific community needs, and strengthening the adaptive capacity of governance frameworks to effectively incorporate emerging risks and community feedback. This thesis concludes that for flood resilience strategies in Dordrecht to be truly effective, a deeper integration with the community-specific needs and vulnerabilities is imperative, underscoring the need for a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to flood resilience.
This thesis focuses on the critical gap in understanding and operationalizing social sustainability within URPs, in the context of private-led developers. While the significance of social sustainability is acknowledged, its application in urban development projects, especially by private-led developers, remains underexplored. This research aims to bridge this gap by exploring how social sustainability objectives are assessed and documented within the context of urban transformation projects. The main research question will be: “How do private-led urban developers interpret and implement social sustainability in URPs, and how do these interpretations impact communities from the perspective of both developers and end-users?”. The research primarily employs a qualitative approach, using literature review, document analysis and semi-structured interviews with experts and residents. Two case studies, Le Medi and The Hudsons, situated in Rotterdam's Bospolder neighborhood, were selected for comparative analysis. The selection of the projects, developed by the same developer, ERA-Contour, but at different times, provides insight into urban planning strategies and their effects over time. Findings show that both projects emphasize social well-being, quality of life and sense of place, addressing various aspects of social sustainability. However, challenges remain, including perceptions of living in a bubble and limited integration with the broader community. Despite municipal guidelines to attract new populations, integration efforts are gradually evolving, with community initiatives showing promise. Analysis of the case studies reveals the strong influence of public and semi-public parties, especially municipalities and housing associations, in shaping urban development agendas. The collaborative nature of Dutch urban governance is considerable. This collaborative nature of Dutch urban governance and its transition to people-centered regeneration underscore the importance of community involvement and bottom-up approaches. The developer's profile, exemplified by ERA, reflects an integrated approach with a focus on concept development, community engagement and on long-term social welfare enhancement. Both projects demonstrate a commitment to design quality and strategic decision-making aligned with the neighborhood context, although the approaches to social inclusion somewhat differ. The study concludes with a theoretical framework that summarizes indicators and contextual factors of social sustainability in URPs. This framework provides a valuable tool for analyzing and understanding the implementation of social sustainability by private developers in URPs. Further research is needed to explore the effectiveness and implications of these strategies for promoting inclusive and equitable urban environments for other types of private-led developers.
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This thesis focuses on the critical gap in understanding and operationalizing social sustainability within URPs, in the context of private-led developers. While the significance of social sustainability is acknowledged, its application in urban development projects, especially by private-led developers, remains underexplored. This research aims to bridge this gap by exploring how social sustainability objectives are assessed and documented within the context of urban transformation projects. The main research question will be: “How do private-led urban developers interpret and implement social sustainability in URPs, and how do these interpretations impact communities from the perspective of both developers and end-users?”. The research primarily employs a qualitative approach, using literature review, document analysis and semi-structured interviews with experts and residents. Two case studies, Le Medi and The Hudsons, situated in Rotterdam's Bospolder neighborhood, were selected for comparative analysis. The selection of the projects, developed by the same developer, ERA-Contour, but at different times, provides insight into urban planning strategies and their effects over time. Findings show that both projects emphasize social well-being, quality of life and sense of place, addressing various aspects of social sustainability. However, challenges remain, including perceptions of living in a bubble and limited integration with the broader community. Despite municipal guidelines to attract new populations, integration efforts are gradually evolving, with community initiatives showing promise. Analysis of the case studies reveals the strong influence of public and semi-public parties, especially municipalities and housing associations, in shaping urban development agendas. The collaborative nature of Dutch urban governance is considerable. This collaborative nature of Dutch urban governance and its transition to people-centered regeneration underscore the importance of community involvement and bottom-up approaches. The developer's profile, exemplified by ERA, reflects an integrated approach with a focus on concept development, community engagement and on long-term social welfare enhancement. Both projects demonstrate a commitment to design quality and strategic decision-making aligned with the neighborhood context, although the approaches to social inclusion somewhat differ. The study concludes with a theoretical framework that summarizes indicators and contextual factors of social sustainability in URPs. This framework provides a valuable tool for analyzing and understanding the implementation of social sustainability by private developers in URPs. Further research is needed to explore the effectiveness and implications of these strategies for promoting inclusive and equitable urban environments for other types of private-led developers.
A look into private-led participation
Navigating shifting responsibilities between private developers and municipalities in urban redevelopment projects
In recent years, there has been a notable shift towards increased citizen participation in society, both globally and within the Netherlands. Concurrently, urban development has undergone a notable shift towards a more private-led orientation over the decades. This shift is evident in the expanding responsibilities of the private sector, particularly project developers, which now extend beyond traditional boundaries. One manifestation of this transformation is the increasing organization of citizen participation by private developers, referred to as private-led participation, highlighted by the new Environmental and Planning Act implemented in January 2024. As responsibilities evolve and the lines between the public and private sectors blur, there is a noticeable convergence of objectives and actions. This growing interdependence in private-led participation processes calls for greater collaboration across organizational boundaries between developers and municipalities. Despite these developments, limited academic research and practical tools address the evolving roles of public and private actors and their collaboration in private-led participation processes. Therefore, this study aims to explore the changing roles of private developers and municipalities in private-led citizen participation processes. Specifically, it seeks to investigate how these stakeholders can collaborate to facilitate private-led citizen participation. The primary method for this study will be qualitative research, involving a comprehensive literature review and multiple case studies within the Municipality of Amsterdam. This approach will include document analysis along with in-depth interviews with developers and municipalities. The study aims to provide practical recommendations for enhancing collaboration between private developers and municipalities in the context of shifting roles, ultimately facilitating private-led participation processes. The research concludes that with developers increasingly taking the lead in managing private-led participation processes, municipalities remain crucial roles in setting the stage, providing guidance, and offering strategic oversight. Collaboration between the two requires separate but also shared responsibilities, clear role definitions, early engagement, transparent communication, clear preconditions and capacity building to ensure private-led citizen participation.
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In recent years, there has been a notable shift towards increased citizen participation in society, both globally and within the Netherlands. Concurrently, urban development has undergone a notable shift towards a more private-led orientation over the decades. This shift is evident in the expanding responsibilities of the private sector, particularly project developers, which now extend beyond traditional boundaries. One manifestation of this transformation is the increasing organization of citizen participation by private developers, referred to as private-led participation, highlighted by the new Environmental and Planning Act implemented in January 2024. As responsibilities evolve and the lines between the public and private sectors blur, there is a noticeable convergence of objectives and actions. This growing interdependence in private-led participation processes calls for greater collaboration across organizational boundaries between developers and municipalities. Despite these developments, limited academic research and practical tools address the evolving roles of public and private actors and their collaboration in private-led participation processes. Therefore, this study aims to explore the changing roles of private developers and municipalities in private-led citizen participation processes. Specifically, it seeks to investigate how these stakeholders can collaborate to facilitate private-led citizen participation. The primary method for this study will be qualitative research, involving a comprehensive literature review and multiple case studies within the Municipality of Amsterdam. This approach will include document analysis along with in-depth interviews with developers and municipalities. The study aims to provide practical recommendations for enhancing collaboration between private developers and municipalities in the context of shifting roles, ultimately facilitating private-led participation processes. The research concludes that with developers increasingly taking the lead in managing private-led participation processes, municipalities remain crucial roles in setting the stage, providing guidance, and offering strategic oversight. Collaboration between the two requires separate but also shared responsibilities, clear role definitions, early engagement, transparent communication, clear preconditions and capacity building to ensure private-led citizen participation.
Urban transformations provide significant opportunities to foster circularity transitions. However, this potential creates a tension with the broader strategic aims of said urban transformations. Within this landscape, this thesis looks at how Living labs – a form of urban circular experimentation – influence the spatial planning practices that need to find a balance between the sustainability demands and the economic demands of space. This thesis uses the conceptual understanding of the living lab as an environment and an approach to explore the ways in which planning strategy and planning form are influenced. For this, a case study of Buiksloterham is employed. Buiksloterham housed a living lab from 2014 till 2021. It was found that the living lab managed to influence planning strategy on a specific level. Furthermore, a circularity discourse has disseminated towards the systemic levels of planning strategy. However, whether or not this living lab can be causally linked to this dissemination as a catalyst, cannot be fully disclosed. The transformative potential of the living lab is found in its ability to muster a transdisciplinary community of powerful actors that collectively can claim a space for an exemplary project. However, it depends on the professionalism of the organizational core of the lab whether this mustering of stakeholders is successful.
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Urban transformations provide significant opportunities to foster circularity transitions. However, this potential creates a tension with the broader strategic aims of said urban transformations. Within this landscape, this thesis looks at how Living labs – a form of urban circular experimentation – influence the spatial planning practices that need to find a balance between the sustainability demands and the economic demands of space. This thesis uses the conceptual understanding of the living lab as an environment and an approach to explore the ways in which planning strategy and planning form are influenced. For this, a case study of Buiksloterham is employed. Buiksloterham housed a living lab from 2014 till 2021. It was found that the living lab managed to influence planning strategy on a specific level. Furthermore, a circularity discourse has disseminated towards the systemic levels of planning strategy. However, whether or not this living lab can be causally linked to this dissemination as a catalyst, cannot be fully disclosed. The transformative potential of the living lab is found in its ability to muster a transdisciplinary community of powerful actors that collectively can claim a space for an exemplary project. However, it depends on the professionalism of the organizational core of the lab whether this mustering of stakeholders is successful.
Liquid cultures: continuity and change in New Town fringe villages
Reinterpreting notion of ‘traditional society’ in conservation future(s) of rural communties and their settlements, on the example of Shan Pui Tsuen in Yuen Long, Hong Kong
Hong Kong is known for its skyline and urban context, interpreted through colonial history. However, its past, present and future are entangled with that of almost 700 villages scattered across the New Territory land and preceding the current Hong Kong population. With recent proposals to further develop the currently ‘rural’ northwest of Hong Kong through the Northern Metropolis proposal, the tangible and intangible dimensions of the village society might be sacrificed to accommodate for a growing population and political interests.
The study aims to examine how traditional society is being reinterpreted in the face of change and loss, particularly in relation to the shifting notion of a village and its role within rural society. It seeks to redefine countryside conservation strategies in the context of the northwest New Territories by moving beyond the cataloguing of the past and embracing progressive, future-oriented practices. The research proposes a framework for self-managed design processes that actively protect community values, offering an alternative approach to the current revitalization strategies limited to eco-tourism and open-air museum projects.
The proposal accommodated for needs of both indigenous and ‘new’ residents, at the same time maximizing the use of existing developed land, and protecting the surrounding natural context. The possibilities of inter-village collaborations suggested through the project encourage the wider application of local skills and the protection of local businesses. Together come to be a strategy for the active preservation of rural cultural heritage, allowing for the change to achieve continuity.
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The study aims to examine how traditional society is being reinterpreted in the face of change and loss, particularly in relation to the shifting notion of a village and its role within rural society. It seeks to redefine countryside conservation strategies in the context of the northwest New Territories by moving beyond the cataloguing of the past and embracing progressive, future-oriented practices. The research proposes a framework for self-managed design processes that actively protect community values, offering an alternative approach to the current revitalization strategies limited to eco-tourism and open-air museum projects.
The proposal accommodated for needs of both indigenous and ‘new’ residents, at the same time maximizing the use of existing developed land, and protecting the surrounding natural context. The possibilities of inter-village collaborations suggested through the project encourage the wider application of local skills and the protection of local businesses. Together come to be a strategy for the active preservation of rural cultural heritage, allowing for the change to achieve continuity.
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Hong Kong is known for its skyline and urban context, interpreted through colonial history. However, its past, present and future are entangled with that of almost 700 villages scattered across the New Territory land and preceding the current Hong Kong population. With recent proposals to further develop the currently ‘rural’ northwest of Hong Kong through the Northern Metropolis proposal, the tangible and intangible dimensions of the village society might be sacrificed to accommodate for a growing population and political interests.
The study aims to examine how traditional society is being reinterpreted in the face of change and loss, particularly in relation to the shifting notion of a village and its role within rural society. It seeks to redefine countryside conservation strategies in the context of the northwest New Territories by moving beyond the cataloguing of the past and embracing progressive, future-oriented practices. The research proposes a framework for self-managed design processes that actively protect community values, offering an alternative approach to the current revitalization strategies limited to eco-tourism and open-air museum projects.
The proposal accommodated for needs of both indigenous and ‘new’ residents, at the same time maximizing the use of existing developed land, and protecting the surrounding natural context. The possibilities of inter-village collaborations suggested through the project encourage the wider application of local skills and the protection of local businesses. Together come to be a strategy for the active preservation of rural cultural heritage, allowing for the change to achieve continuity.
The study aims to examine how traditional society is being reinterpreted in the face of change and loss, particularly in relation to the shifting notion of a village and its role within rural society. It seeks to redefine countryside conservation strategies in the context of the northwest New Territories by moving beyond the cataloguing of the past and embracing progressive, future-oriented practices. The research proposes a framework for self-managed design processes that actively protect community values, offering an alternative approach to the current revitalization strategies limited to eco-tourism and open-air museum projects.
The proposal accommodated for needs of both indigenous and ‘new’ residents, at the same time maximizing the use of existing developed land, and protecting the surrounding natural context. The possibilities of inter-village collaborations suggested through the project encourage the wider application of local skills and the protection of local businesses. Together come to be a strategy for the active preservation of rural cultural heritage, allowing for the change to achieve continuity.