The use of digital information in a municipal spatial structure plan

The benefit of linking digital data with geographical maps has always been underestimated in the spatial planning of Flanders.Today, the planning methods in Flanders have evolved from a static land-use planning to a dynamic, more flexible planning: spatialstructure planning. The general idea is to come to a consensus between the different fields that have a need for land occupation.Understanding ones needs, it should be easier to make decisions based upon a mutual insight of problems and opportunities regardingspatial planning. How does one examine spatial structure plans, problems and opportunities using digital information? All differentfields have their own methods of gathering spatial information and storing it digitally, what results into a large amount of data. Thispaper describes the use of these data in a spatial planning process: the conditions in which to use databases, how to link different datato spatial maps and how to work with overlays in order to formulate conclusions regarding spatial planning. Last but not least, wehave worked out a way to import GIS-data in non-GIS-programs in order to produce attractive charts that can “sell” spatial planningideas to the public. The main purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the importance of using digital information in spatial planningand the necessity to have a constant dialogue between spatial planners and GIS-experts in order to make models that are suitable forspatial planning