Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
level, are the focus of this topic. In order to better understand the controversies
surrounding the use of policy maps at transnational level, there is a need to identify
the extent to which the form and style of cartographic illustrations vary in different
planning traditions in Europe. This will be a precondition for the effective use of
cartographic representations to communicate spatial policy at European and trans-
national levels.
The topic is approached through a cross-national comparison of the differ-
ences in the content and style of cartographic representations in strategic spatial
planning in European countries, using the cases of the Netherlands, Germany and
England, and at transnational level using the example of the European Spatial
Development Perspective (CSD, 1999). In Chapters 2 and 3 of this topic, theo-
retical perspectives on planning and power and cartographic communication are
discussed, which can offer an understanding of the style, content and use of carto-
graphic representations in planning processes. Chapters 4 and 5 focus on the
empirical investigation of the design, content and use of cartographic representa-
tions in the three European countries and during the ESDP process. In Chapter 6,
overall conclusions will be drawn which aim at providing a better understanding of
the use of cartographic representations in domestic and transnational planning
processes.
