Routledge Evaluation in Planning: Evolution and Prospects (Urban and Regional Planning and Development)

Evaluation is a critical stage in urban and regional planning and development, with the consideration of alternative proposals essential for informed debate and decision. Evaluation in planning has become even more important with the new paradigm attempting to integrate economic efficiency with equity, sustainability and social responsibility. The craft of pre-development evaluation has long been influenced by Nathaniel Lichfield, and in his honour, this book brings together prominent researchers and practitioners to discuss evaluation in planning: its conceptual foundations and subsequent development, its strengths and persisting dilemmas, and its best practices and their potential for improving future planning and development. The chapters trace evaluation in planning from its historical origin to current applications. Part one reviews the evolution of evaluation theory and practice, and part two contains a selection of best-practice application. The final integrating chapter notes key problems, and offers directions for future development in evaluation research and practice. Review ’This is a remarkable book in two ways. First, because the contributions - all by leading world experts in the field - collectively represent the definitive text on the art and science of evaluation in planning. Second, because they have been written to celebrate the lifetime achievement of the greatest single contributor to this important field, Professor Nathaniel Lichfield. Though not a contributor, his work permeates the entire book.’ Professor Sir Peter Hall, Bartlett Professor of Planning and Regeneration, University College London, UK '...a significant contribution to our knowledge. For policymakers, scientists and planners this book is mandatory reading.' Scienze regionali About the Author Ernest Alexander is Emeritus Professor of Urban Planning at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, USA. He is currently practising in Israel as Principal of APD (Alexander Planning & Design), Tel-Aviv, Israel.