Conclusions from the planning process

Author: Besnik Aliaj, Ledian Bregasi
Affiliation:  Polis University

Abstract
In such a highly volatile environment characterized by continuous changes in the role of authority in controlling and developing of the territory, some conclusions can be drawn. These conclusions are to be intended as general guidelines for the Albanian case specificities. At the same time, the issues faced during the drafting process of the General Local Plan for Shkodra can serve as a precedent for future scenarios of planning in conditions of future uncertainties where the role of the institutions is not historically consolidated. The case of Shkodra reconfirmed that a participatory planning process is crucial for the success of the operation. The involvement of the public and stakeholders guarantees the legitimation of the plan, guaranteeing in this way the sustainability of the instrument in the future. The lack of consolidated institutional culture makes it common for the plans to be revised or totally dismissed every time there is a change in the administration, so guaranteeing the involvement of all the actors will increase the plan’s possibilities to be implemented in the future. At the same time, the participatory process can be misused by the authority. Other cases have been observed in Albania where the public hearings of the planning process are mere formalities or are used as propaganda moments used by the local governments. So, the public participation in the planning process, when understood as a moment of sharing opinions and debating about decision making can guarantee the legitimation of the plan and its successful implementation.