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Ecology as a metaphor for city planning should allow for emerging new functions, rather than emphasizing a stable totality. The problems inherent in imposing unity are demonstrated by the sterility and deadening effects of the machine metaphor as exemplified by Le Corbusier's modernist planning, which is based on separate functional areas subordinated to the system as a whole. The ideal of harmony often associated with ecology tends to reproduce the same mistake of imposing an artificially limited Platonic order. There must be concern for the whole, while also preserving openness to the unexpected that can arise out of areas of disharmony and contestation.

The crisis of the 1970s resulted in major and structural changes in the spatial and politico-economic organisation of society. These changes can be explained by the transition from a Fordist mode of development toward a new, more geographically open and market-based mode of production founded on a growing and all-encompassing flexibility. As planning is not an abstract analytical concept but a concrete socio-historical practice, these changes had a major impact on planning and the planning profession.... That brings us to a new role definition for planners. Some initial ideas are offered as a way of redefining the role. The focus of the paper is on the re-emphasis of the political role of the planner as well as on the technical expertise and the managerial role of the planner.

As 2012 draws to a close, president Colin Haylock reflects on the highs and lows of a tough and challenging year for the sector. I was elected as the RTPI's [...]

Consultation on the first Edinburgh city local plan began last week, with residents asked 20 questions on issues such as supermarket locations and public transport improvements. Views are also being [...]