Note that Alexander refers to 'local communities', while James refers to 'the community' having sections. This is why I asked my question, about 'Community' vs 'Society', and 'The Community' vs 'Communities'. Just as every community is made up of two or more persons, 'The Community' is made up of multiple 'communities'. One vibrant form of democracy is thus for 'The Community' to allow each 'community' to have total autonomy.

I understand that, but often NIMBY, particularly when it occurs in swinging seats, can have a large influence on planning.

That's why we have democratically elected governments - to make decisions that are in the best interests of the community as a whole, even though such decisions may be unpopular with some sections of the community.