Suburbanisation uncontrolled? The role of legal framework in limiting the dispersion of built-up areas in Poland

Abstract

The article aims to determine the legal rationale for the dispersion of built-up areas in Poland and draws some polemical conclusions. The current legislative system of spatial planning and construction is the main cause behind the aggravation of spatial chaos. Built-up areas have been exhibiting dispersed patterns that often contravene natural, technical, infrastructural, economic, social or even legislative imperatives. The authors prove that suburbanisation in the strict sense is not existent in Poland, and that, quite the contrary, the decisions for new investment sites tend to be taken deliberately by landowners, investors and representatives of public administration. The authors review the causes and effects as well as legislative reasons for the dispersion of built-up areas. The text ends with recommendations for legislative changes aimed at counteracting the dispersion processes.