| Abstract |
Circular development necessitates the socio-ecological transformation of our urban systems. It requires that "wasted" resources are looped; the ecological regenerative capacity and adaptive capacity of urban systems are developed. The end result will be healthier urban ecosystems, with low levels of resource consumption and wastage. Spatial planning potentially has a crucial role to play in the delivery of circular development. However, it has an ambiguous legacy, demonstrated by London, Paris and Amsterdam. It will need to go beyond the allocation of temporary spaces for circular experimentation, if it is to enable the transition. It will need to intervene in markets to provide space for low-value, circular activities and enable the localised looping of resources within city-regions. It should support infrastructure needed for circular actions and ensure urban form continues to support circular systems adopted. Finally, planners can generate demand for circular activities and products, through conditions placed on new developments. |