A mandatory component of the participation plan is the description of the participation frameworks and, linked to this, the formulation of participation questions, with the aim of clarifying the role of the local community in the decision-making process. Participation questions are open-ended questions. To help you determine the participation frameworks and questions, you will find a number of examples here. The frameworks for participation must be shared with the local community in advance.
Examples of questions relating to participation
In your participation plan, you should clearly indicate, for each theme (Development, Programme, Mobility, Outdoor Space), where the areas relating to participation are located (the participation frameworks)
On which matters are residents still allowed to have a say, and at what level of participation can they still provide input? For example, on some issues you simply inform residents, whilst on others there may be more scope for residents to express their views or have a say in the decision-making process.
Participation frameworks
| Objective | Level of participation |
|---|---|
| You’d like to tell us about your plan | You talk about your plan (you let those around you know). |
| You want to improve your plan | You involve people in your plan so that they can help improve it. (You consult those around you or seek their advice.). |
| You want to draw up a plan together with others | You involve people in your plan (co-creation). |
| You want to decide on the plan together with others | You allow people to have a say in your plan. You are partners on an equal footing and make decisions together. |
Sample questions
Buildings
- Would you prefer to have more rooms, each of which is relatively small, or would you prefer to have fewer rooms, each of which is relatively larger?
- How can the building height be distributed effectively across the various towers?
- To what extent is there a need for, say, seating in the communal areas? What form should this take?
- To what extent can the building face in all directions?
- How should the programme be allocated across the building(s)?
- What style would be appropriate in this setting? Consider: industrial, in keeping with the existing architecture, modern, etc.
Programme
- What sort of facilities are needed? What form should these facilities take?
- The building will contain both offices and residential units; how should the building volume be divided between the two, and why?
- How can the homes for different target groups be distributed across the building volume?
Mobility
- How can accessibility for people with disabilities be best ensured?
- To what extent are loading and unloading bays required, and where would they be best situated?
- Where are cycle routes desirable, and what form should they ideally take? What needs to be taken into account when designing cycle routes?
- Where are walking routes desirable, and what form should they ideally take? What needs to be taken into account when designing walking routes?
- What points would you like to highlight regarding access for emergency and rescue services?
- What are people’s preferences when it comes to parking solutions for cyclists?
- What are people’s expectations when it comes to parking solutions?
Outdoor space
- What sort of look do you prefer? Think of neat and tidy, organic, etc.
- What criteria must recreational walking routes meet?
- What is needed to ensure people feel safe in this area? Consider factors such as adequate lighting, a clear view of the entire outdoor area, etc.
- What sort of sports facilities are required in this area?
- What sort of atmosphere should these facilities have? Think modern, natural, etc.
- What sort of plants appeal to you?
- What points would you like to highlight regarding the design of the outdoor space? Consider solutions for nuisance, safety, litter and dog fouling.
- What facilities should we make sure not to overlook when designing the outdoor space? Think of plenty of seating, a water tap, etc.
- What facilities would you like to see in the outdoor space? Think of facilities relating to: sport, play, leisure and socialising.