Which planning approach prioritizes community needs and input?

The planning approach that prioritizes community needs and input is rooted in the principles of community engagement. This method involves actively involving community members in the decision-making process, ensuring that their voices, preferences, and concerns are directly considered in the planning and development of projects. By focusing on the perspectives and experiences of local residents, community engagement fosters a sense of ownership and investment in local development, leading to outcomes that are more aligned with the unique needs of the population.

This approach contrasts with top-down planning and centralized planning, which tend to be conducted by authorities or planners without direct input from the community. These methods can lead to solutions that do not fully address the real concerns of residents. Architectural regulation, while important, typically refers to the standards and rules that govern building design and construction, rather than directly engaging the community in the planning process. Thus, community engagement stands out as the correct approach for prioritizing the needs and feedback of those who will be most affected by planning decisions.