Practical experience of public participation: evidence from methodological experiments

by Nick Tyler

Abstract

This paper discusses the general principles underlying the real and active participation of the public in decisions which affect a community. I begin with a brief consideration of the philosophical and political rationale for including the public in these decisions. Then I will explain what is needed in a public participation process in order to ensure that it is fair, helpful and cost-effective for all people involved. Then I will describe two examples where we set up some experiments in public participation to test these principles. Finally I will consider the application of these outcomes in other circumstances. Thus the paper will discuss the processes of public participation and deliberation, the potential for decision-making processes in general and the problems associated with these approaches.

If you wish to receive a copy of this paper or leave a comment, please fill in the form below, including your email address if a reply is required. Select the Submit button to send the form.

(Back to the Accessibility and Public Transport publications page)

Return to the Centre for Transport Studies site or to UCL home page.
Please note that any views expressed here do not necessarily reflect UCL College policy. No claim is made, explicit or implied, about the suitability of any data presented here for any purpose. All rights are reserved by individual members of the Dept., the Dept. itself, or UCL as appropriate, unless otherwise indicated. Any links to pages provided by individuals in the department are done so on the understanding that they agree to abide by the College and draft UCL Guidelines.

Last updated July '02

Please send any comments or queries about this web site to the webmaster