Authentic co-production of public space

This study tests the potential of a facilitated action-research approach in
participative urban design projects to act as catalysts in countering social
violence in distressed quarters of France. It evaluates the FAR programme
(Formation Action Recherche pour la coproduction et gestion des espaces
publics) in the region Nord – Pas de Calais as a local strategy for achieving
the national objectives of social reform – as envisioned by President
Mitterand and encapsulated in the national Politique de la Ville.
Significantly, this study identifies the critical importance of positive
political will at all levels in achieving the goals of the Politique de la
Ville, and it provides a possible explanation for the failure of previous
attempts to engage residents effectively. It also indicates possible future
strategies for planning participative projects where they are intended to
promote integrated social, urban and economic development.