Raumforschung und Raumordnung (Jun 2020)
Sustainable spatial development – landscape identity as theoretical and practical challenge for spatial planning
Abstract
This paper is based on the assumption that sustainable spatial development requires a relational perspective on space and a specific focus on conflict resolution. These general requests are applied to a specific spatial planning topic: landscape identities. The latter are defined as individual interpretations of specific landscape features referring to both physical environments and social place meanings. For an empirical assessment, landscape identities are operationalized as a variation of the ‘appropriated physical space’. Thus, our core interest is on spatial features used for subjective interpretations about landscape distinctiveness, for the formation of a sense of belonging and togetherness as well as for emotional attachments. Based on these so-called reference points, a determination of identity-relevant conflicts becomes possible, i.e. of opposing landscape identity interpretations. In a rural case study region, landscape identities are made visible using qualitative-reconstructive methods. The results of 28 semi-structured interviews indicate a diverse spectrum of reference points. These features were repeatedly discussed even though the individual meanings ascribed to them vary. Furthermore, our results show conflicting interpretations: the same features are regarded by some as identity-creating, but explicitly not by others. In face of the empirical results, the theoretical and methodological considerations are discussed and planning implications are suggested. A particular focus is on opportunities to deal with conflicting interpretations of landscape identities.