URBAN REGENERATION AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICY FRAMEWORK. Consultation Questionnaire

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1 URBAN REGENERATION AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICY FRAMEWORK Consultation Questionnaire July

2 Framework Questions: 1. Do you agree that the four policy objectives in the Framework for urban regeneration and community development are the right ones? The general view of RTPI NI members was supportive of the four policy objectives set out on the Framework. The view was expressed that objective 2 lacks clarity in terms of driving economic growth and that the Framework is unclear on its position on the protection of town centres or wider settlements. 2. Are there any additional policy objectives which should be included in the Framework? On discussing the policy objectives it was felt that the fourth objective should be separated to include: - To develop more cohesive and shared spaces; and - Nurturing, empowering and engaging strong communities. It was felt that weight should be given to the concept of creating shared spaces in light of the introduction of Community Planning in Northern Ireland. 3. Do you agree that the enabling objectives in the Framework are the right ones? The RTPI NI members agreed in general with the enabling objectives identified in the Framework, it was suggested that the Framework should include promotion of opportunities to share good practice and the dissemination of knowledge. RTPI NI would like to take this opportunity to offer our services in the delivery of training. With over 23,000 members RTPI has a reputation for providing value for money and relative training programmes and Networks available to both members and non members. It would be useful for the document to outline how it links with the rural strategy and if or how any overlap will occur. 2

3 4. Are there any additional enabling objectives which should be included in the Framework? The framework does not address the enabling opportunities that will be available through the Review of Public Administration and how these objectives can be delivered across sectors, Departments and Council areas. The function of planning is crucial to enabling and delivering the policy objectives. This function should be given recognition through these objectives, in particular post RPA when local authorities will be responsible for planning. 5. Do you feel that the emphasis on an outcomes-focused approach, as exemplified by the use of the Logic Model, is appropriate? In general the RTPI NI is in support of the principle of an outcome focused approach, however, the question was raised as to why the rational of the Logic Model was chosen above other models, what is the thinking behind this choice and if it is actually necessary? It was felt that more detailed information should be provided on the set of outcome based indicators that outcome is measured against and how is this set? The question was also raised as to how the Logic Model will fit across Departments and where does it sit in relation to RPA? 6. Do you agree with the Department s definition of urban or should a more flexible approach be taken in future? The issue on the flexibility of the approach was discussed in depth. Concern was raised as to the accuracy of the population figures provided as many of them appear to be based on the 2001 census and are therefore now considerably out of date. Concern was expressed that the current approach lacks flexibility and that the definition could result in some inequalities in the assessment and support system from different departments funding urban or rural projects. The consensus was that there should be more flexibility in the definition, perhaps taking into account character definitions rather than just numerical as this may give artificial representations. 3

4 7. Do you agree with the Department s definition of regeneration? There were some concerns amongst the discussion group regarding this definition. It implies that only Government funded projects will fit the description as outlined. This suggests that community or private sector lead initiatives would not be classified as regeneration. It was felt that a wider definition of regeneration should be adopted that permits more emphasis on empowering areas, to bring about a long lasting improvement in the social, cultural, economic, physical environment and governance conditions of an area that has been subject to change. 8. Do you agree with the Department s definition of community development? The group agreed with the definition of community development. 9. Is there anything else you would like to add? In general RTPI NI welcomes and supports the Framework, however, there was conceren that the document could go further to bring change from the status quo. RTPI NI would take this opportunity to add the following comments; The framework should pay more attention to the economy; The documents appears to be using out of date census information; The document should identify its evidence base more clearly; The Framework makes no reference to Community Planning powers or the power of well-being, which are an essential element of planning reform and future regeneration; The Framework should identify stronger links to planning as this is a function key to the delivery of regeneration RTPI NI would be in support of a single planning authority that is linked with finance. 4

5 Equality Screening Questions: 10. Are you content with the conclusion reached in the DSD Equality Screening document? Yes 11. Are there any issues that have not been addressed? If so, what are these and what measures could be implemented to mitigate against any adverse impact on people in the Section 75 equality groups? No Please provide comments and evidence in support of any alternative views. 5