The Role of Public Perception in Shaping Urban Development Policies

Abstract

This qualitative research examines the measures by which public perception influences the development of urban development policies. Based on interviews with the local residents and policymakers, the study explores the ways that the modifications in the urban planning projects and activities result from the shifts in public opinion. The research findings show that two mechanisms that flow from public engagement are instrumental in shaping policies – feedback and support for accountability and adaptability. Among the most influential following parameters: socio-economic status, concern of an individual with the problems of cities, faith in the authorities. The study also shows the views of the policymakers towards the public opinion to see that the community may indeed drive changes in such urban projects. In this context, this research fills the identified theoretical and methodological gaps by disclosing the intricacies of public engagement in relation to its influence on policy change in the urban context. The outcomes of this research point to the fact that promoting the culture of cooperation in action plans geared towards urban development will be more productive and will command public confidence. Hence, the study should extend future research to examine public perception as the process unfolds across different phases and the activation of online social media as a tool for enhancing public participation in policy making.