“DE SINGEL IS ROND” - THE FUTURE OF URBAN PLANNING: GOING FROM LANDSCAPE TO SENSESCAPE

Abstract

This research examines and analyses the integration of sensory experiences in policy documents and promotional communications related to the Singel in Utrecht. This was done through a recorded video of the Singel and an eco-linguistic research analysis. The findings concluded that there is limited mention of the senses in the policy documents that were analysed. There were a few mentions of ‘ervaring’, but the senses were mostly mentioned in illustrations that were added to the document. The inclusion and consideration of the senses in policy are important as it will create higher-quality urban blue-green spaces (Hamilton, 2020). In contrast, sensory experience was more comprehensive in the promotional communications related to the Singel. The spoken word text taken from the video ‘de Singel is rond’ included multiple sensescapes and used illustrative language to describe the Singel. The promotional communication can be an inspiration, or an addition, to policy documents to create healthier urbanisation. Furthermore, it is recommended that municipalities invest in creative media companies that create commercials in regard to (renewed) urban green spaces. Lastly, it is recommended that further research looks into the relationship between sensuous governance and healthy urbanisation.