The paradox of strategic spatial planning: A theoretical outline with a view on Finland: Fid-Bau Portal

The paradox of strategic spatial planning: A theoretical outline with a view on Finland

Mäntysalo, Raine / Kangasoja, Jonna K. / Kanninen, Vesa

Recently, the emphasis on the strategic dimension of spatial and land use planning has brought along new instruments of “soft” and informal planning. While these instruments may enhance the strategic quality of planning, more attention needs to be paid to how they relate to the existing statutory land use planning instruments. In the regulatory planning systems of continental Europe, the statutory planning instruments manifest non-strategic features, yet they cannot be ignored in strategic spatial planning. Therein lies the paradox of strategic spatial planning. The theoretical argument of the article is developed by drawing on Wilden's distinction theory that builds on the notion of logical paradox. With a view on the Finnish planning system, the article explores practical implications by utilizing Schwarz's and Healey's ideas of scenario planning and strategic framing, respectively. In so doing, the article reflects on a few cases of strategic spatial planning in Finnish city-regions, and the Finnish government's aim to develop the strategic character of statutory local master plans.