A GIS for the public: enhancing participation in local decision making

This paper discusses research which aims to examine the potential of using the World Wide Web interface as a tool for increasing public participation in environmental decision making. The use of on-line geographical information systems to allow public interaction with geographical features as an alternative to a traditional 'Planning For Real' ® exercise is discussed with reference to a recent case study. The desire to achieve an understanding of how the general public would respond to using a web based participatory tool is discussed. Future pitfalls and potential areas of development are also considered.