We live in times of tragic trajectories witnessing a complex interplay of impacts from deep-seated social, economic and environmental problems – characterised by disparity and decline. Instead of turning a blind eye or despairing, can we imagine and implement more equitable and less disastrous alternatives? Which theoretical foundations of planning or new inspirations can help us inform and transform planning governance and practice to be fit for the 2030s and beyond?

The round table links to current research on city region planning from a critical realist perspective. The specific themes and invited speakers have been selected for their pertinence in discussing and addressing persisting thorny issues and choices that challenge the current status quo and simplistic mainstream rhetoric of ‘green growth’ or ‘digital transformation’ as a solution.

The participants offer insights from and for planning theory, policy and practice; how to make connections between different strands of research and evolving thinking to disrupt or realign existing trajectories and forge new pathways in planning.