New Dutch spatial planning policy creates space for development

Abstract

The new Dutch policy memorandum is known as the National Spatial Strategy and is an integrated document produced by four different ministries. The planning horizon is 2020. The main aim of the new policy is to set in motion a dynamism in spatial processes, and to avoid imposing specific requirements on spatial development unless national or international interests are at stake. Emphasis is on a different approach to government control, the motto being “Decentralize if possible, centralize if necessary.” The new policy not only enlarges the role and responsibilities of the regional and local governments (provinces and communes), it also paves the way for more involvement of citizens, private companies and stakeholders in spatial developments. The government seeks to tie in with social trends, rather than combating them. Two important consequences have been the abolition of the restrictive central government involvement, and the provision of more space for the construction of housing in rural areas. Legislation is being simplified to make it easier for authorities at other levels to take decisions and to speed up government decision-making processes in general. An entirely new spatial planning bill has been submitted to Parliament. In addition, land policy is being modernized. Legislation is in preparation to enable the cost of public works to be recouped from project developers. The National Spatial Structure, which sets out nearly all central government land-use priorities, provides the necessary elaboration of more general policies. The Structure breaks down into two components: Part A, based on the existing water system and associated with “nature” and “landscape” projects, focuses mainly on guarantees for specific spatial values of (inter)national importance and Part B, based on the existing transport infrastructure and associated with “economic” and “urban” projects, focuses on stimulating spatial dynamics, crucial for the Dutch society and economy.