The classic representative democratic system, which guarantees participation opportunities for all, is under pressure. The question arises as to how the interests of citizens can be more effectively integrated into democratic negotiation and decision-making processes regarding urban development issues. The thesis of this debate book is that there is significant potential within the group of "intermediaries," which has multiplied and evolved in recent years. Intermediaries now serve not only as mediators, facilitators, and protesters for the transfer between "system" and "lifeworld," but also for network-like co-production and new forms of regulation and governance between municipalities, the economy, and civil society. Unlike usual approaches, this book does not examine local democracy for "systemic failures," but rather asks how the interests of citizens can be better integrated into the democratic process.