Local Government Views on the Idea of Sustainability towards Urban Planning and Development: The case of Khon Kaen, Thailand

As rapidly urbanizing facing complex economic, social, and environmental challenges, the views of sustainability held by local government, as a key stakeholder in urban planning and development, must be carefully considered to advance sustainable development in the urban context. Recognizing their critical role in policy implementation, this study employs a qualitative approach, using a focus group with representatives from four subdistrict municipalities within Khon Kaen. Participants discussed their visions, barriers, drivers, key stakeholders, and future directions for urban development across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Findings underscore the necessity of a holistic integrated strategy for sustainable urban development. They recommend and emphasize a cross-sectoral collaboration, an investment in sustainable infrastructure, and a design of data-driven policies that foster green economic opportunities and equitable access to resources, that envisions crucial insights for policy design in urban contexts.