The University of Sheffield
Town and Regional Planning

Research clusters

There are two research clusters in the Department: Planning, theory and practice; and Spatial development.

Each undertakes theoretically robust, policy relevant and practice oriented basic and strategic research. An emphasis is also placed on methodological innovation. Interdisciplinary work and inter-departmental collaboration is strongly encouraged.

Planning, theory and practice

The main focus of the cluster's work is the development of understanding about the nature of planning and related policy fields. It is committed to critical thinking in and about planning, as well as the evolution of new and progressive practices. A key characteristic of the cluster's research is the study of the interaction between theoretical concepts and planning practices, between understanding and action. This translates into the following themes:

Spatial development

Work in this cluster is focused on spatial processes in the economy, society and the built environment, and on governmental policies which address these. This translates into four themes:

For more details of staff research interests please see our Staff webpages.