Futures methods are largely absent from the toolbox being used for urban regeneration. Yet their effective use can mitigate many of the shortcomings we have identified in major initiatives in both the growth areas of the South East and neighbourhood renewal initiatives in the North.

The Urban Futures Game we devised for CABE and the RIBA brings people from different sides of the planning process – policy makers, providers and members of the community – round the table to explore their hopes and fears and to discuss different options for the future in a positive and constructive way. It uses scenarios to explore reactions to alternative futures and builds consensus that allows progress to be made.

Using the Game helps build a shared platform for managing change by providing a framework for thinking about the future. The framework promotes clarity by providing a structure within which to discuss complex issues. The structure does two things: it allows people to articulate and discuss their aspirations and concerns and it helps them develop a range of options that can be compared and prioritised.

Urban Futures Consultancy
Using the Urban Futures Game, CAR consultants can provide organisations with half-day workshops aimed at bringing stakeholders together to discuss and agree options for change.