Opening the Black Box of Integrated Urban Development Strategies: On Causal Mechanisms and Policy Theories

Abstract

AbstractThis chapter is devoted to analysing the policy theory used by local plans to implement integrated policy mixes. Based on the theory-driven evaluation and social mechanism perspectives, the chapter analyses the causal process established by local plans to ensure the link between objectives and their expected results; and, therefore, the relation between goal and implementation tools. From an analytical point of view, four main causal processes are proposed as combinations of two main aspects. First, goals according to the classical distinction in urban policies between context and actors. Second, the causal mechanism behind policy tools is distinguished according to two main types: oriented to modify opportunity structures and to change actors’ preferences or resources. These causal processes are identified by analysing each policy action implemented in local plans portfolios. The comparison between URBAN and URBANA programmes shows a progressive change from causal processes based on motivational mechanisms targeted at specific groups to re-equilibrate social inequalities to causal processes centred on context improvements to enhance their attractiveness.