Abstract
This article examines the concept of integrated spatial planning through a case study of sub-regional working in South Hampshire, England. It argues that while the government's notion of integration was ill-defined and inconsistent, there were critical opportunities discernible for planning practice. We focus on three aspects of integration: across territories and fragmented spaces; between actors and stakeholders; and from policy development to delivery and implementation. However, the cautious re-scaling of governance activity to the sub-region limited the effectiveness of the overall integration programme. The article concludes with a review of contextual features that contributed to the distinct manner in which integration was employed in South Hampshire and how this might inform future policy-making.
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank the editor and referees for their critical remarks and helpful suggestions.
Notes
For a review of the relationship between planning and New Labour see the special theme edition of this journal (Planning Practice and Research 24(1), 2009).