Guest Editors: Flora Samuel (University of Reading) & Kelly J. Watson (Hatch Urban Solutions)
Deadline for abstract submission: 1 November 2022
This special issue explores social value in relation to both placemaking (urban design, architecture and real estate) and construction (procurement and labour) processes.
The emergence of the social value agenda has real potential for the promotion of justice, equality and social cohesion in our built environment. Social value is often defined in different ways by sector, industry and context. A useful working definition is “the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of the relevant area” (Public Services (Social Value) Act, 2012). This demonstrates an interrelationship with triple bottom line sustainability, as well as the importance of prioritising impact within a defined spatial area, which could be local, regional, national or wider. Other definitions emphasise the importance of stakeholders and beneficiaries recognising and placing a value on the changes they experience in their lives, as well as the quantification and measurement of positive impacts.
The aim of this special issue is to explore current and potential approaches to defining, delivering, monitoring and evaluating social value in the built environment, its benefits and consequences and its relation to other existing policy mechanisms. How can planners, clients, designers create and evaluate social value at different scales? How can local stakeholders (communities) be involved and empowered? How can the intended outcomes be assured? Submissions are welcomed that examine these phenomena in the different social and economic contexts. Contributions that explore social value from various viewpoints and multiple perspectives are particularly welcome.
For the full submission details and further information, visit the B&C Community Website.
