A collaborative virtual environment for public consultation in the urban planning process

This paper extends research in Collaborative Virtual Environments (CVEs) by exploring their use in a purposeful interactive public application. Though often discussed, few such studies have been undertaken, since the widespread availability of 3D platforms is a recent phenomenon. The application selected is that of Urban Design and review. The experiments use a virtual cityscape in which planning changes are presented to the public at large. Respondents inhabit the shared environment and can engage in dialogue with other participants, modify and comment upon proposed designs. We want to prove that the ready accessibility of the 3D presentation, together with the communication stimulus of the shared environment, will facilitate useful communication and engagement by the public in the planning processes. The research involves investigating the mechanisms of interaction, cooperation and design commentary within this process.