Constructive Consultation – How can we make the act of dialogue a more positive process with constructive outcomes?

One of the frequent arguments against public and stakeholder consultation is that it often produces negative reactions to reasonable plans that public authorities wish to implement. Worse, it acts as a magnet, attracting dissidents and opponents like bees to a honey-pot. According to some, whatever the criticism may be – having a consultation is bound to make it worse. It stimulates debate and discussion where maybe there is little demand for such. In short, it magnifies opposition.