Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
content, layout and use of the most appropriate cartographic representations.
Related to the question of the function of spatial planning at this level of scale is
also the intended audience for the strategy, and discussions on how the strategy
will be applied. If the strategy is expected to have a 'programming' function, then
effective instruments need to be in place to ensure its implementation, and a more
detailed and zoning-oriented representation of spatial policy could support the
message of the plan. If planning is understood as 'communication', the strategy will
have to rely on its persuasive power in order to be commonly acceptable, and the
cartographic representation of spatial policy therefore needs to be abstract (so as
not to interfere with other planning levels' competences) as well as highly attractive
and convincing. If the planning strategy is directed at the wider public, particular
consideration should be given to limiting the complexity of information presented,
and to present 'catchy' cartographic representations of spatial policy.
Many different types of maps can be in use during the planning process,
ranging from topographic base maps, over spatial analysis maps to trend forecasts
and the final 'policy map'. Without a doubt, all have their place in planning, yet
there has not been much discussion to date on the different functions of different
types of maps within the planning process, not even in a domestic environment. At
transnational level, this can easily lead to significant confusion among participants
about whether what is depicted is the current situation, trends, the 'spatial vision'
and desired spatial structure, or a combination of these functions. Indeed, many
cartographic representations in recent transnational planning exercises appear to
be not very clear about this, and it should therefore be no surprise if the message
of the 'policy map' is obscure even to experienced map users.
The different types of 'maps' in use in transnational spatial planning
processes have certain questions attached to them that may affect their effective-
ness. While technical concerns dominate the preparation of spatial analysis maps,
such as the availability and comparability of data, indicators and definitions, for the
preparation of scenarios or 'spatial visions' the political component becomes more
important, such as the question of the function and audience of the strategy. The
preparation of any planning map, and its expected design, needs to be clearly dis-
cussed, as the layout carries its own message. Spatial analysis maps that have
been prepared with GIS software continue to be understood by many as unbiased
and objective representations of the territory, yet the information used, its decoding
and representation include as many decisions with regard to selection, schematisa-
tion, generalisation and interpretation as do qualitative and design-led spatial
images. Thus, in a transnational spatial planning process, it might be advisable to
avoid this connotation of the 'truthful' and 'factual' GIS-map whenever suggestions
or expectations for the future spatial development of the territory are discussed.
Certain graphic tools can help to communicate tentative and subjective policy pro-
