Social Cost-Benefit Analysis of Bottom-Up Spatial Planning in Shrinking Cities: A Case Study in The Netherlands

In current research, the social return to citizens initiatives is important but often under-evaluated. Within this work, we collected information that has emerged from measuring value of regenerative projects in shrinking cities. We used a case study project Gebrookerbos, socio-spatial regeneration city Heerlen, Netherlands. To assess project’s monetary and immaterial aspects, cost–benefit analysis (SCBA) was understand complexities costs benefits associated with area. Drawing literature on urban shrinkage, citizen involvement, analyses, theoretical framework proposed. The included primary (i.e., interviews) secondary document analysis) data identify Gebrookerbos project, results suggesting been meaningful diverse stakeholders. Based experiences SCBA one finding complexity citizens’ terms due their process, organisation, goals, combination dynamics discuss why research draw attention tendencies, opportunities, future potential initiatives, which contribute vacant open spaces quality life