Davoudi, S. and Strange, I. (eds), Conceptions of Space and Place in Strategic Spatial Planning, London, Routledge (RTPI Library Series), 2009

This book examines the ways in which the new wave of spatial planning in the latter part of the 20th Century has been informed by the concepts of space and place and how these concepts have been used in the construction of plans. The authors, both academics and practitioners, provide an historical analysis of the different ways in which the notions of space and place have been adopted in planning thought and practice. Also, through an exploration of recent experiences of strategic spatial plan making in the UK and the Republic of Ireland, they consider the ways in which contemporary spatial planning practices employ ideas about space and place. Using six illustrative case studies of practice, this book examines which conceptions of space and place have been articulated, presented and visualised through the production of spatial strategies. It brings together leading planning researchers, producing accounts of spatial strategy making that are theoretically informed, empirically grounded and practice relevant.  While there is widespread support for re-orienting planning towards space and place, there has been little common understanding about what constitutes ‘spatial planning’, and what conceptions of space and place underpin it. This book addresses these questions and stimulates debate and critical thinking about space and place among academic and professional planners.
Table of contents