Book excerpt: Planning evaluation is required to establish the success of planning interventions – both of physical developments and new approaches. Yet this should not be a task undertaken purely by professionals without participation by those affected by the process and outcomes of the projects. This book provides case studies and advice on how to balance conservation with economic growth, the cost effectiveness of plans alongside the effects upon the community and the importance of engaging with all stakeholders involved in a project. Practical aspects of the evaluation process covered include: how evaluation is used in planning introducing new kinds of information or criteria alternative ways of collecting/presenting information how strategic planning objectives are implemented in local practice. International contributors provide empirical studies and cases of application which are of practical value to those involved in the evaluation of planning. The book concludes by offering a new paradigm – a locally oriented, context-specific, participatory and multi-disciplinary approach to planning evaluation.