Land Policy in Poland: Evolution of the Liberalisation of Urban Planning and Policy Making

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Abstract
The post-communist period in Poland has been characterised by extensive liberalisation of spatial planning and a lack of coherent land policy. In recent years, the state has attempted to address problems arising from this liberalisation, but paradoxically, instead of strengthening the planning system and establishing a coherent land policy, it has further complicated the system by enacting various lex specialis—laws that take precedence over general planning regulations. Among these, the special Housing Act which aimed at facilitating housing development, has been particularly contested by the planning community. This act permits exceptions to established land use plans, but also imposes requirements on developers, particularly concerning the provision of urban infrastructure, which were previously non-existent. Additionally, the act has introduced the possibility of negotiations between municipalities and the developers. This chapter examines a case of successful application of the act, demonstrating its potential to foster housing development alongside the provision of public infrastructure. The case exemplifies the evolution of planning liberalisation and the reactive land policy at the municipal level.

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