**2. Approach to the Study**

In this study, a methodology reflects the overall frame which justifies applying particular spatial planning techniques and tools. By proposing and discussing the methodology, this study does not specifically consider the value-related issues to be a wicked problem in spatial planning and development. However, it does have a wicked component because a lack of values in planning poses problems in development outcomes. Yet, there is no immediate and no ultimate test of a solution for it [26]. This makes it pertinent to keep searching and testing techniques for VLP, thus tackling values-related planning concerns.

In devising a methodology for VLP, this study draws from findings from various topical studies on European comparative perspectives (from spatial planning documentary sources) conducted from 2017 to 2020. The study particularly responds to Auzin, š's and Viesturs's (2017) call for creating a methodology for the VLP approach to ensure applicable implementation strategies for existing frameworks of spatial planning and development [17]. Hence, this study extends previous research conducted on European-wide comparative studies of spatial planning concepts using comprehensive evidence gathering (CEG) [17,18,22,27]. The methodology is proposed as a result of the synthesis of the key study outcome gathered during both the analytical research (examination of a range of scientific literature and documentary sources) and empirical research by making case studies (exploring the spatial planning practice and territorial governance in selected differently experienced European countries). Therefore, the study aims to show and discuss the issues

which are essential for designing the content of methodological solutions to support the implementation of the VLP approach into land-management practice.

Consequently, the approach of the study is fourfold (Figure 1): first, to provide a theoretical understanding of values-led approaches; second, to examine the organisation and peculiarities of the planning process and to identify the best way possible to involve stakeholders in a spatial planning process; third, to analyse the planning environment and shared values of the actors and to characterise and propose a typology of values, conceptualised participation, and evaluation techniques, including a value-causing assessment (VCA); and fourth, based on issues emerging from the synthesis of values-led approaches—including the organisational peculiarities and the shared values of actors in the spatial planning process—the study proposes a methodological framework for the VLP approach to be introduced in spatial development. The first three steps in this methodological approach are based on three knowledge-generating causal steps: (1) the understanding of theoretical orientation; (2) institutional issues and cases; and (3) values considerations in planning that led to the outcome—a methodology for VLP approach to spatial development. Thus, applying the proposed techniques for the integration of the assessed values with stakeholders' preferences essentially presents a novelty of this study.

**Figure 1.** The approach adopted in the study.
