Planning in the Public Interest: An Evaluation of Civil Society Participation in Collaborative Land Use Planning in British Columbia‪.‬

Abstract This paper assesses civil society participation in collaborative planning by completing a comprehensive survey of participants in a collaborative land use planning process in British Columbia, Canada. Participant responses are assessed against 25 evaluative criteria to determine strengths and weaknesses of collaborative processes for civil society stakeholders. The results show that the greatest barriers for civil society stakeholders are commitments of time and financial resources that are required for effective participation, and the power imbalances that exist among stakeholders. Despite these and other barriers faced by less empowered stakeholders, the research suggests that involvement in collaborative planning is an effective strategy for civil society provided that the limitations of the process are understood and participants prepare themselves accordingly.