Planners’ perceptions of new green industrial establishments : Examples from seven Swedish municipalities

Abstract: Sweden has since 2015 aimed at becoming the first fossil free welfare state. Investments in green industries have recently increased to unprecedented levels and there are currently many industries establishing themselves in Sweden with the intention of becoming drivers of the green transition. This thesis aimed at exploring how these establishments have impacted the municipalities in which they will locate themselves. By interviewing seven municipal officials involved in spatial planning, the impact of these establishments has had on planners and planning routines has been analysed. It was discovered that these establishments bring with them immense pressures and expectations to create growth and development for the municipalities. Some municipalities have formed new collaborative relationships to help ease the pressure whilst others claim it is business as usual. No matter the management of the establishments and the surrounding processes, there is a strong belief in the potential they hold. In line with postpolitical theory, the actors involved are consensus-seeking and work collaboratively. The processes are backed by a strong sense of unity, both within the municipal organisation but also across political borders. The use of fuzzy concepts also aligns with the postpolitical criticism of public management. However, the development of the industries are not fuzzy and can be seen to deliver real growth, which goes against the claims of post political thinkers. Conclusively, the municipalities that received these establishments are put under immense pressure but welcome the establishment with hopes of creating a prosperous future.