The theory of partnership: why have partnerships?

This chapter explores some of the theoretical and policy issues concerning the reasons for developing and operating partnerships. In particular partnerships to promote urban and rural regeneration or economic development are analysed as these involve a wide range of actors (including central or federal government, local government, the private sector, and local communities) and the underlying issues that they deal with are multifaceted. Many case studies of such partnerships exist (see e.g. Wannop; 1990); however, the more general theoretical basis for understanding and analysing them remains poorly developed.