A Contingent and Flexible Approach for Urban Plans

Abstract

This paper addresses the need for greater flexibility and adaptability in urban planning processes, especially under conditions of global crisis and uncertainty. Traditional urban plans, often spanning 10–12 years, require new approaches that allow continuous adaptation to changing contexts. The authors propose a programming and implementation management model inspired by project management methodologies, recognising urban plans as complex, long-term projects with multiple stakeholders and external dependencies. Focusing on the Portuguese legal framework, which mandates execution and financial plans but provides vague guidance, the paper argues for integrating uncertainty and contingency into planning. The proposed model seeks to enhance the effectiveness of urban plan implementation by offering a flexible, adaptive, and resilient approach to translating strategies into real-world outcomes.