| dc.description.abstract | This study examines the role of Dutch provinces (Utrecht, Noord-Brabant and Drenthe)
as metagovernors (actors who guide, coordinate and facilitate governance networks
without direct hierarchical control), in the policy integration of water and soil systems
within spatial planning. This policy integration is essential to ensure climate resilience
in the Netherlands. Challenges related to drinking water extraction, flood protection
and space for housing and employment are faced in the Netherlands (Deltares, 2021).
The growing interdependence between water governance and spatial planning
(Wiering & Immink, 2006; Woltjer & Al, 2007) must be intensified and spatial
development should follow water and soil measures (IenW, 2023). The ‘Water and Soil
Steering (WBS)’ policy aims to achieve this (IenW, 2024a). In enabling this integration,
national and regional networks occur (Baulenas et al., 2020).
The underexamined role of the provinces in these (policy and governance) networks
is discovered by participant observation, semi-structured interviews and a focus group.
Findings indicate that provinces play an increasingly active but context-dependent role
as ‘hands-on’ metagovernors (who foster consensus, share knowledge, and promote
collaboration). Furthermore, the importance of the personality of individuals in taking
this metagovernor’s role is highlighted. However, their ability to act as effective
metagovernors is often constrained by limited resources, ambiguous mandates, and
political or network-related tensions. This can lead to metagovernance and network
failures (Sørensen & Torfing, 2007; Jessop, 2002; Kickert et al., 1997). To enable a
more effective implementation of the WBS-policy, a shift from the status quo is needed.
This calls for shifting power relations and tackling bottlenecks. Researchers,
policymakers and planners should experiment with the use of collective financial
instruments, public input and a neutral, non-affiliated metagovernor. | |
