Lancaster University has recently unveiled pioneering mapping technology with the aim of involving future generations in the planning and development of cities. This advanced technology, as articulated by researchers in a new publication on June 30, seeks to promote public participation in the shaping of the urban landscape of tomorrow.
The researchers have introduced a novel approach which utilises gaming platforms to enable individuals to immerse themselves in the process of urban planning. In particular, they have adapted a popular game called ‘Cities: Skylines’ by Colossal Order, a game where players are responsible for controlling various aspects of city management, such as zoning, public services, and transportation.
Real-world buildings and models can be incorporated into the game, allowing for the creation of realistic cities which can later inform actual planning initiatives. In the game, players are also tasked with managing essential services like education, police, fire, healthcare, and even setting tax policies, all while monitoring the happiness of the virtual citizens.
The researchers emphasise that only 20% of younger people express an interest in urban planning, according to the Royal Town Planning Institute. This low level of engagement has prompted the need for innovative approaches to increase public involvement in planning processes. By leveraging digital games, the researchers argue that individuals can ‘play’ with real-world planning policies, thus establishing a dialogue with planners.
Dr Paul Cureton and Professor Paul Coulton, leading the research at ImaginationLancaster, Lancaster University’s design-led laboratory, have published their findings in Acta Ludologica, a peer-reviewed scientific journal focused on games and digital games. Their work, funded by the Digital Planning Programme, Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC), highlights the urgent need for change in public interest regarding planning processes.
Although gaming technology has been utilised in 3D planning models and urban digital twins, the researchers claim that there are still missed opportunities to integrate game design and public participation in future city scenarios. They stress the cost-effectiveness and potential for widespread adoption of this technology by local authorities across the UK.
In addition to their research, Dr Cureton and Professor Coulton conducted gaming workshops alongside Lancaster City Council, engaging 140 children in playing and planning for the development of the Lancaster area in the UK. These efforts also involved collaboration with Lancashire County Council and national house builder Homes England in conceptualising a new garden village with 5,000 homes.
The researchers draw attention to the long-standing tradition of digital games providing simulations of various human activities, but express the need for a deeper understanding of how gaming technology can be harnessed to yield benefits in terms of enhanced citizen engagement. Their work aims to provide a reference tool for new planning models, presenting insights into the potential applications of game design and technology in urban planning and digital transformation.
To address the current challenges in citizen participation, Professor Paul Coulton highlights the significance of using games as tools to facilitate real-world engagement in previously complex processes. He emphasises the potential for games to deliver information and understanding of how systems operate, ultimately leading to increased public involvement in opaque processes.
Dr Paul Cureton also underscores the importance of gaming technology in providing the public with the tools to contemplate and engage in the transformation of urban spaces. He notes the significant lack of engagement from young adults in local planning initiatives and sees a valuable opportunity for gaming to cultivate a deeper understanding of planning issues and to model future urban spaces.
In conclusion, the innovative mapping technology introduced by Lancaster University holds great potential for reshaping the landscape of urban planning and development, offering a unique approach to engaging the public in the future of city building.