Assessing the role of participatory planning approach in enhancing informal settlements upgrading in low income regions

This study critically reviews 10 published case studies of the informal settlement upgrading process to assess the role of Participatory Planning Approaches (PPAs) in addressing the present-day realities shaping informal settlements in low income regions. The study identifies various PPA types, which differ in their levels of participation as measured by Arnstein's Ladder, ranging from high community control to tokenistic consultations. The study finds that informal settlements upgrading projects with higher levels of participation, where residents had decision-making power, produce more sustainable and resilient outcomes, leaving a positive legacy in social and physical infrastructure. In contrast, top-down approaches, where community input was limited, often resulted in less sustainable outcomes and diminished community ownership. The findings highlight the critical role of PPAs in shaping the legacy, maintenance, and management of upgraded infrastructure. The study concludes that context-sensitive, flexible PPAs that integrate local knowledge are essential for successful slum upgrading. By involving communities in meaningful ways, upgrading initiatives can enhance the sustainability, resilience, and effectiveness of interventions, providing valuable insights for future slum upgrading projects.