Our latest policy briefing, by Professor Radka Newton, Dr Jekaterina Rindt and Dr Mirian Calvo from Lancaster University highlights the potential of Future Scenario Planning (FSP) in local policymaking. Initially developed in organisational strategy, the use of FSP has since been expanded to public policy, where it is valued for its emphasis on stakeholder engagement and contribution to future proofing policy decisions. FSP explores and develops multiple future scenarios, tests them against uncertainties and can help foster improved decision-making, and can be particularly useful in encouraging policymakers to think beyond siloed decision-making structures.
This briefing presents insights on the use of FSP to collaboratively prepare for changes to transport and mobility in Lancaster and Morecambe in the context of Eden Morecambe, a planned new leisure destination. The findings highlight the potential for innovative methods to prompt discussion and debate about the formation of local policy, and engage local communities.
The authors have also developed a Future Scenario Planning toolkit for local policymakers.
Future Scenario Planning for local policymaking [PDF 0.8MB]
Future Scenario Planning toolkit [PDF 0.3MB]
DOI: 10.17638/03172472
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