Yuman Tsai

Exploring Spatial Planning System Reform: Implementation of Local-Level Spatial Plans in Taiwan

Name: Yuman Tsai
Primary Supervisor: Dr Chia-Lin Chen
Year: 1
Discipline: Planning
Presentation type: 3 Minute Talk
Project Title: Exploring Spatial Planning System Reform: Implementation of Local-Level Spatial Plans in Taiwan

Abstract:

Taiwan is currently undergoing a spatial planning system reform, including the enactment of the Spatial Planning Act and the delegation of new planning authority to local governments. This research investigates the implementation challenges faced by local-level spatial plans under the new legal framework. Significant difficulties have emerged in both the formulation and implementation of these plans. Drawing on perspectives from implementation theories and spatial planning theories, the study explores key elements such as policy characteristics, temporal boundaries, key actors, critical actions, legitimacy framework, and goal clarity. A qualitative approach, combining semi-structured interviews and secondary data analysis, is adopted to examine regional variations in implementation outcomes. Additionally, the study employs an appropriate analytical framework to evaluate both the processes and outcomes of local-level plans. The findings aim to clarify how institutional and governance factors influence the effectiveness of spatial plan implementation.