Strategic intervention policy and spatial governance: the case of "Hellenikon"

Abstract

The regeneration of the former "Hellinikon" airport area in Athens is an interesting example of a strategic urban intervention in which different scientific approaches, policies and practices were formulated and discussed. The purpose of this paper is to address some of the key points of the long-term spatial planning and refurbishment policy dialogue focusing on spatial governance issues. Initially, what is attempted is to summarize trends in the theoretical framework along with policy practices related to strategic urban interventions. Examples from European cities are highlighted with emphasis on the policy and management practices in HafenCity, Hamburg where the public sector remains responsible for strategic planning and guides the development process. In the case of Hellenikon, the unfavourable economic situation as well as the inability to form an effective spatial governance framework seems to result in public policy retreat.