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:
- values in planning - the application of insights from ethical theory to develop normative thinking about planning
- ideas, planning and policy frameworks - analysis of the mobilisation of ideas within planning frameworks and policy outcomes
- government practices - critical analysis and reconceptualisation of relationships between and within the state and society.
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:
- economies, markets and the state – analysis and theorisation of the structure and behaviour of markets;
- policy and governance – exploration of the interaction between the processes of spatial development and government policies and practices;
- spatial knowledge – understanding and analysis of the influence of power relations on the reneration and reproduction of spatial knowledge; and
- the making of places – investigating the actions underpinning urban place making.
For more details of staff research interests please see our Staff webpages.
