TASK FOR 5th NOVEMBER: STEELE, W. & RUMING, K.J ARTICLE

From reading the article, I have understood that a regulatory planning system involves zoning with an emphasis on more prescriptive planning. This allows for faster planning and delivery which can act as an economic tool by delivering housing stock in a timelier manner. However, this more confirmative way of planning can cause an obstruction to mixed-use developments and can lead to social or economic exclusion. There are also limitations in certainty as certain projects require more flexibility due to the context or circumstances.

Discretionary planning can be described as ‘performative’ or strategic planning. It has a greater level of flexibility in terms of decision making and is responsive to individual circumstance. However, can be unpredictable, lack consistency, and can be very complex. If I had to choose one, I think that a discretionary planning system is favourable because it allows for the consideration of individual circumstance, whereas a regulatory system does not allow this flexibility. This is important particularly when working with existing built up areas as each site will have its own community, identity and culture – therefore, zoning might not be the best solution. I also appreciate that a discretionary system can allow for more creative proposals whereas a zoning approach can be seen as quite rigid.