Political participation and consultation in the urban context : a study in the causes characteristics and consequences of political demand-making in Portsmouth

Abstract

This study is primarily concerned with political participation between elections. It examines the causes, characteristics and consequences of citizen demand-making in the City of Portsmouth in the latter part of the 1970s and early 1980s. The research concentrates on five major themes - issues, patterns of participation, the roles of councillors and officials, outcomes, and functions. Although theoretically eclectic, it is mainly managerialist and locational approaches which are used.
Initially a range of different modes of participation are analysed including complaints, petitions, deputations, and objections to planning applications. The activities of neighbourhood associations and protest groups are also noted. Secondly, the results of a survey in one locality - Southsea - are reported. Thirdly, the patterns and processes involved in consultation with residents in general improvement areas; with council tenants in the city and in overspill estates; with parents over 6th form school reorganisation; and the public in the formulation of traffic regulation orders, are investigated.
The main conclusions of the study are that the agenda of public participation is dominated by amenity and locational issues, and rarely extended to broader questions of resource allocation; the inner city in Portsmouth is a highly demanding zone; and it is officers who largely direct the process of public consultation. Success or failure of demands from the public largely depend on the willingness of the council to make concessions; and finally, participation performs several functions. The study concludes with a series of proposals which would improve the quantity and quality of public participation in the city.

More information

Identifiers

Catalogue record

Export record