NEED TO PLAN FOR THE FUTURES IN A WORLD IN TRANSITION

From the intentional/wilful certainty of Sectoral Regulatory Plans to Comprehensive Strategic Spatial Planning

Abstract

This paper carries out an analysis, diagnosis and proposals for a more adequate strategic spatial planning as proactive response to the new global challenges. To this end, a detailed study has been carried out both at theoretical (since the bibliographical review) and practical level (of planning legislation and styles and their effects); based on the author's continuous experience in: national (GOBEFTER I, II and III) and international (ESPON SUPER, ROBUST HORIZON) research projects, in the organization and participation in international conferences and networks (AESOP, FUNDICOT, RIDOT, REDETEG ...), and in the elaboration of different planning, regulatory and strategic instruments (sub-regional spatial plans, Valencian Urban Agenda). Based on this continued work, the main arguments on the context, nature, conditions, results and proposals on spatial planning that are presented in the text have been identified. They are organized in three sections. In the first one, spatial planning and its role in the current ecological transition framework are positioned, and how planning instruments and their implementation make it possible to truly combine sustainable development with economic growth and territorial cohesion. Second one refers to their motivation as a complementary alternative to normative planning, their approach, method and scope (integral, participatory, flexible, long-term but in continuous evaluation). The third section presents conclusions and recommendations: an iterative planning that territorializes development policies and pays more attention to implementation.