New Edition Released: ARL Country Profile of the United Kingdom

The new ARL Country Profile on the United Kingdom, authored by Dr. Sebastian Dembski and Dr. Phil O’Brien, provides a comprehensive overview of the country’s territorial governance and spatial planning system within its geographical, socio-economic and institutional context.

The profile examines the United Kingdom’s spatial planning systems across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, highlighting the different planning frameworks and governance arrangements that have developed through the process of devolution. It also outlines the purpose of planning in each nation, with a shared emphasis on sustainable development.

Particular attention is given to the distribution of planning responsibilities between the UK Government, the devolved administrations and local authorities. The profile also explores the evolution of governance structures, including Combined Authorities and recent devolution reforms in England.

In addition, the publication discusses the UK's geographical and socio-economic context, including regional inequalities, demographic patterns and the territorial implications of Brexit for planning and regional development.

👉 Read the full Country Profile of the United Kingdom here.