An open source simulation-based approach for neighbourhood spatial planning policy

Abstract

We describe the development of a practical tool for urban planning, using innovations in agent-based modelling to reconcile conflicts at the local/neighbourhood level and designed to improve engagement in neighbourhood spatial planning to deliver optimal planning and regeneration solutions. Neighbourhood or 'place' is an important factor in deciding social and economic outcomes. Neighbourhood is also increasingly important for urban planning across Europe as communities are at the front-line in developing resilience to anthropogenic and natural shocks. The current financial crisis and public sector austerity measures across Europe represent shocks to local communities that require policymakers to maximize investments and resources delivered to local communities. Communities and citizens can therefore play a bigger role in contributing to the resilience of cities through local neighbourhood planning. However, there is a need to work differently as public and private finances are restricted and communities need to co-produce plans and delivery of services. Co-production can therefore be one contribution to solutions designed to foster resilience and deliver efficient neighbourhood planning and associated services. Coproduction in this context requires an open source approach in which producers and consumers can observe viewpoints and react to the implications of simulated outcomes. Whilst there are numerous examples of Planning Support Systems (PSS) designed to assist urban planners there has been no significant progress made in developing a 'grounded' approach incorporating 'real-time' inputs from users and stakeholders at the neighbourhood level. This paper sets out the principles and objectives of a simulation-based OpenPlan system in which producers and consumers swap roles. This leads to a greater coproduction of planning inputs designed to deliver optimal outcomes and more resilient cities. © 2012 IEEE.