The objective of this article is apply alternative approaches of development on the formulation of planning instruments for in Barranquilla: District Development Plan 2016 - 2019 and territorial arrangement planning 2012 - 2032, being assumed as the vision of development and vision of city respectively. Understanding the territory as the spatial scope of development, the latter is the result of a process of participation aimed at overcoming conflicts, therefore development involves being controversial, polysemic and dynamic, starting from the desired economic and social progress.