Democratic rights are granted by its nations legislation and systems, but needs enforcement by its institutions to be effective. This also relates to Universal Design. The refugee crisis in Europe raises questions as to how planning in the societies can be designed and implemented to include the new groups of the population. The Norwegian Planning and Building Act (PBA) put weight on the individual's or a group's right to influence public assessment and decision making processes. In this article a case from the Veitvet-Sletteløkka area in the ward of Bjerke, Oslo, is presented to show how these principles can be put into practice. The case clearly demonstrates how the presence of representatives from the ward and planning authority built trust to the various parts of the local community by a consistent and inclusive approach. Also, to further enhance inclusion and effectiveness in planning, the case illustrates the need for adapting new technologies, communication modes and perspectives.