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Center–Local Linkages: The Impact of Policy Planning Systems*

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  28 November 2008

Chris Skelcher
Affiliation:
Institute of Local Government Studies University of Birmingham
Bob Hinnings
Affiliation:
Faculty of Business University of Alberta
Steve Leach
Affiliation:
Institute of Local Government Studies University of Birmingham
Stewart Ranson
Affiliation:
Institute of Local Government Studies University of Birmingham

Abstract

This paper examines policy planning systems in British central-local government relations, and in particular the formal, structured relationship in the local transport policy sector, as a means of exploring the impact in intergovernmental relations of the form of linkage between institutions. This impact is analysed in terms of central government's ability to use the planning system to promote policy processes and promote and regulate policy content in the locality. The use of specific and block grants by central government as a potential instrument of control in relation to policy planning systems is discussed. An examination of limiting cases reveals the importance of local resources in minimising central government influence through the policy planning system, and suggests that institutions will seek to restructure the form of linkage or underlying resources when they see themselves loosing advantage to others.

Type
Articles on Policy Planning Systems
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1983

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