Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
THE USE OF CARTOGRAPHIC REPRESENTATIONS IN THE
PREPARATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT
PERSPECTIVE
The preparation of the ESDP until its adoption in 1999 lasted for more than ten
years, but there was little discussion on the visualisation of possible policy options for
the EU territory until the mid-1990s. However, theories on the use of cartographic
representations in planning processes have pointed out that 'maps' can have an
important role in shaping the debate and setting agendas, if introduced early on in
the process (cf. Söderström, 1996, 2000; Neuman, 1996, 2000). Clearly, this poten-
tially central role of cartographic illustrations was not recognised in the first years of
'searching' for the appropriate function of an EU spatial strategy, and their introduc-
tion into a process that was already well under way proved difficult.
The discussion in this chapter will concentrate on those stages in the ESDP
process that were crucial to the discussions on 'mapping'. The examination will
concentrate on the preparation of 'trend scenarios' under the French presidency in
1995, the tactics under the Spanish and Italian presidencies, and the renewed
emphasis on 'mapping' under the Dutch presidency in the run-up to the first draft
of the ESDP. Further, the developments under the UK presidency in preparation for
the complete draft ESDP (Glasgow document) in 1998, and for the final ESDP
under German presidency in 1999 will be discussed. The chapter will also briefly
consider developments with regard to the cartographic representation of spatial
policy for the EU territory after the adoption of the ESDP. The chapter concludes
with a synthesis of the underlying factors affecting the debate on policy maps for
the ESDP.
THE FRENCH TREND SCENARIOS (STRASBOURG, 1995)
The trend scenario exercise, initiated by the French EU presidency in 1995, was
the first important step in intergovernmental working towards the cartographic
representation of spatial policy options for the EU-15 territory, and undoubtedly
one of the high points in the 'mapping history' of the ESDP process. The scenario
approach was a new experience for all involved, including the French presidency.
The time horizon for the scenarios was 2015, and they were meant to present a
future scenario on the assumption that no significant policy changes would occur.
The trend scenarios were based on the 'Principles for a European Spatial Develop-
ment Policy' (the so-called 'Leipzig principles'), on which the EU ministers respons-
ible for spatial planning had agreed in 1994 (BMBau, 1995b). The three 'Leipzig'
policy themes related to a more balanced and polycentric urban system; parity of
access to infrastructure and knowledge; and the wise management and sustain-
able development of Europe's natural and cultural heritage. The trend scenarios
