Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
CHAPTER 3
CONCEPTUALISING THE CONTEXT, FORM AND USE OF
CARTOGRAPHIC REPRESENTATIONS IN FORMAL AND
INFORMAL PLANNING PROCESSES
The discussion in this chapter concentrates on selected areas of the literature that
can add depth to the disciplinary theories discussed in the previous chapter,
and provide a basis for the analysis of cartographic representations in spatial plan-
ning. For the
context of elaboration
of cartographic representations in strategic
spatial planning, possible categorisations of spatial planning traditions and
theories on conceptions of space are discussed, as these provide a better insight
into the context and the general understanding of planning in different European
countries. In order to be able to analyse the significant differences of the
cartographic 'products', i.e. the 'policy maps' in planning strategies in different
planning traditions and at transnational level, a hermeneutic approach to map
analysis is proposed, as well as literature that explicitly discusses types and func-
tions of cartographic representations in legally binding and in informal planning
instruments. Furthermore, theoretical approaches that can offer explanations for
the
use
of strategic planning instruments in an informal and transnational setting
are reviewed.
THE CONTEXT OF ELABORATION OF CARTOGRAPHIC
REPRESENTATIONS IN STRATEGIC SPATIAL PLANNING
The design and use of cartographic representations in strategic spatial planning is
influenced by a large number of contextual factors. This section will focus on a
review of categorisations of spatial planning 'traditions', with particular considera-
tion of the impact that certain approaches to spatial planning have on the style and
content of cartographic representations in the planning process. The second area
of the literature discussed in this section concentrates on the conceptions of
space that underpin planning policies and practice. The past years have seen
increasing interest in the effects of the new relational geography on the organisa-
tion of space, and some authors have begun to question how this might affect the
cartographic representation of spatial policy. The section will conclude by dis-
cussing the role of spatial concepts and spatial metaphor in planning policies.
