The FeminiNE1: a case study analysis of gender inclusivity in Newcastle’s planning policy and practice

This article examines the relationship between gender representation in planning authorities and the inclusivity of urban policies, using Newcastle upon Tyne, a rare case of a female-dominated city planning department, as a critical case study. Drawing on feminist urban theory, this research employs a three-phase methodology, a policy review, participatory workshops and expert interviews, investigating how gender identity shapes urban experiences and whether increased female representation at decision-making levels translates into gender-responsive planning outcomes. The findings suggest that, despite shifts in gender composition at leadership levels, institutionalised planning frameworks may still reproduce gendered biases, underscoring the need for structural policy reforms.