In response to South Africa's idiosyncratic past, integrated development planning has emerged as a policy and practical instrument for reconstruction and development of a new society. This form of planning seeks to weave the different cut pieces of the fragmented past through a common tread resulting in a rich tapestry of human society. This complex process is not without conflict, tension, uncertainties, ambiguities and confusion. This dissertation seeks to explore the evolution, logic and character of this planning model. Such an exploration will help unpack the confluence of forces that gave rise to this planning as well as how it unfolds in contemporary times. The role of key players within the context of integrated development planning, namely officials and councillors, will be examined in an effort to come to terms with how the manifestations of power relations between these actors help bring colour to this process. / Thesis (M.T.R.P.)-University of Natal, 1998.