Local residents are opposing urban planning changes. How can you engage with their concerns effectively?

I have engaged with parish councils on proposed housing schemes, in areas where the pressure of development is really felt. The first thing I did, was sit and listen to them, to let them voice their concerns directly with me. They appreciated the time I gave them and I was able to amend the scheme to accommodate what they suggested. This resulted in a change from opposition to support.

Listen first for sure and as part of this ‘info gathering’ phase start to identify who is not presenting their information or stating their case. It’s not uncommon for those who feel they will be impacted by a decision to forget there are other perspectives. In many cases these other groups are the least able to present their case or they are not given the opportunity.

Engage residents by hosting open forums to listen to their concerns, providing clear information about the planning changes, and addressing misconceptions. Foster collaboration through workshops, allowing residents to contribute ideas. Regular updates and transparent communication will build trust and demonstrate that their input is valued in the planning process.

Urban planning is transforming and as such it is prone to all sorts of resistance from both locals and even some public entities. it is important to involve these segments at the inception stage. PLAN WITH THEM NOT FOR THEM. they know a lot about their locality and that local/indigenous knowledge could help in reducing resistance by local community.

People usually resist change and prefer that significant changes do not occur within the comfort zone of their lives. In such situations, listening is one of the most effective and important strategies. It is essential to allocate enough time and carefully listen to their concerns to understand their fears about these changes. This way, they will feel heard, and gradually, their resistance to change will diminish.

It is useful to go into your discussions with local communities, knowing your boundaries in terms of what you are able to deliver. It is impossible to say "yes" to all requests, but having a threshold of the things you can say "yes" to whilst also explaining what you must say "no" to is vital to a schemes delivery and viability.

After understanding the fears and concerns of the local residents, the importance and benefits of the project should first be clearly explained, and solutions to their concerns should be introduced. For example, if their concern is the prolonged duration of the project, they should be assured that the project is proceeding according to the schedule and will be completed on time.

When people are involved in the planning and execution process, they are fully informed about the project's issues. This creates confidence in them that the project will proceed according to the schedule and precise planning. If something causes a delay in the project's completion, they will have been informed in advance and will, therefore, accept the situation more easily and without mental stress.