Sticky Stories: How Civic Initiatives Connect to Regional Planning Agendas

Abstract

This paper examines how self-organising civic initiatives influence the construction of regional planning agendas by local and regional governments. Drawing on agenda-setting and framing theory, it highlights the role of “sticky stories” — strategically framed narratives that spread through social networks, mobilise support, and shape perceptions. Two case studies in the Netherlands demonstrate how stories become sticky through conversations, favourable circumstances, and the involvement of connectors who link people, ideas, and contexts. The findings suggest that civic initiatives can outperform professional planners in creating the right conditions for change. For planners, adopting adaptive attitudes that embrace self-organisation and connect to unfolding sticky stories may be crucial in managing complexity in regional planning.