Planungsgrundlage

Planungsgrundlage is a term used in German planning practice to denote the compilation of information, data, assumptions and normative guidelines that form the basis for planning decisions. It includes the legal framework, planning objectives and the technical data that describe the current and projected state of an area. The concept serves as the foundation for evaluating possibilities, comparing alternatives and ensuring transparency in the planning process.

Components of the Planungsgrundlage typically comprise the factual basis, such as demographic projections, land use inventories, infrastructure stocks, environmental data and spatial maps; as well as assumptions and scenarios about future development, including population growth, economic conditions, mobility patterns and climate-related constraints. Planning guidelines encompass policy targets, sustainability requirements, and legal constraints that shape the objectives of the plan. The combination of these elements enables authorities to assess impacts, weigh trade-offs and document the rationale behind proposed measures.

Functionally, the Planungsgrundlage supports the preparation and evaluation of planning documents like the Flächennutzungsplan (land-use plan) and the Bebauungsplan (development plan), and it is often linked to environmental impact assessment and public participation procedures. The process of developing the Planungsgrundlage involves data collection, analysis, scenario development and stakeholder involvement, with updates as new information becomes available.

In practice, Planungsgrundlage varies by jurisdiction but generally includes data on population, housing, transport, economy, environment, and infrastructure, all aligned with the applicable planning laws and policy objectives.