The relevance of bequest: An observer's perspective

The results of the BEQUEST project on sustainable urban development are reviewed as conceptual contributions and as a dynamic network. The objectives of BEQUEST are considered and compared to the principal achievements. The enlargement of the usual scope of sustainable urban development (SUD) and the insistence on the time and space continuity are highlighted. The different parts of BEQUEST (framework, decision support system, inventory of assessment methods, tool kit, procurement protocol) are discussed in particular in the perspective of new knowledge production through the Extranet. The achievements are situated in a broader perspective, providing a critical review of the current paradigms for SUD. Additional issues which have appeared in other projects are introduced, in particular concerning the cultural, long term aspects of SUD. Finally some perspectives for work after BEQUEST are presented.