With the advancement in technology, it is quite true that intensive outdoor surveys are now mostly forgone in Planning. However, the trend in several Developing Cities shows that Master/Strategic Plan implementation efforts seem to be defeated. Most of these Plans were prepared by Foreign Firms. Is it possible that lack of intensive knowledge of these Firms about the Planning area could be a decisive factor working against these plans? Urban Planners, especially from developing countries, help.
I believe a maximum amount of knowledge of the planning area is extremely desirable for development of successful long range land use plans. A plan is only as good as the citizens and policymakers who are willing to pursue its long-term policies and mandates. The planner must either be well acquainted with the inherent characteristics and desires of the region, or have excellent sources of information who can help him/her address those issues unique to the area under study.
The unique characteristics of an area may frequently affect such diverse issues as: policies that guide location of utility lines, transportation modes and facility types, as well as routes and service characteristics; selection of appropriate/acceptable strategies for the protection and preservation of the natural environment; responsiveness to climate change, storm emergencies (witness the wrath of superstorm Sandy!); and, future advances in communications and technology that result in major lifestyle changes. Plans should also anticipate effects of long-term economic and development changes upon land use patterns. This naturally includes future demands for public facilities for governmental administration, security, education, medical services, housing and recreational facilities.
Planners fundamentally recognize that solutions to one community's planning needs and problems are NOT necessarily the most appropriate for another. While the elements of the process may be standard, the planner must constantly adapt them in order to best address the specific nature and needs of the individual community. The best way to achieve this is by the development of a working knowledge of the area character and background.
Developing countries are particularly sensitive to the unique characteristics and needs for their citizens. Their planning efforts must also anticipate the use of "cutting edge" technologies and economies, like new more efficient long-term renewable energy production as parts of future economies. Land use plans that do not reflect the character of the cultures and environments they address may fail to meet their fundamental raison d'etre...the effective management of future urban growth and development.
Thanks a lot Melvin. The points you raised are very important, especially, for policy - makers in the Developing countries. Taking Abuja, Nigeria as an example, Indigenous Urban Planners are now very critical of the Master plan of Abuja because of the lack of compatibility and sensitivity to the needs of the user population. The Plan is very, very pedestrian - unfriendly and near total disregard for the poor working class.. These and more has brought conflicts and misery in the implementation of the plan. Melvin has set the ball rolling and I will appreciate more examples such as Abuja from other countries.
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