Território, identidade e política no planejamento urbano-metropolitano: os lugares de urbanidade metropolitana no contexto da Região Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte- Brasil

Abstract

This paper discusses the effects of the implementation of the "Places of Metropolitan Urbanity -LUMEs", a public policy program proposed in the “Integrated Development Plan for the Belo Horizonte Metropolitan Region”. Three pilot experiences of LUMEs were analyzed as case studies. The importance of the program is that it aims to promote and qualify citizen action in the planning process. The hypothesis explored is that these spaces contribute to the formation of the metropolitan identity, collaborating for a more cooperative governance structure. The results indicate that the LUMEs are the driving force of the formation of local identities; however, they are primarily spaces that promote a more engaged social participation when linked in decision-making related to to everyday life spaces. Limitations are presented in relation to interests that go beyond the initial demands and to involvement whit other processes that lead to the politicization and approximation with the political-administrative system.