Raumordnungspolitik

Raumordnungspolitik is the set of policy measures and regulatory frameworks that shape the spatial structure of a country. It aims to coordinate land use, settlement development, infrastructure, economy, and environmental protection to promote balanced regional growth, sustainability, and social cohesion.

In Germany, Raumordnung rests on federal and state law. The federation and Länder coordinate long-term development through strategic plans, regional concepts, and cross-border cooperation. Planning instruments include regional development concepts and guidelines for settlement and land use, implemented at various administrative levels and aligned with transport, housing, and environmental policies.

Key goals are to reduce regional disparities, direct growth to suitable locations, prevent urban sprawl, protect landscapes and ecosystems, and ensure efficient infrastructure and mobility. The approach seeks coherence between cities and rural areas, and alignment with environmental and climate objectives. EU cohesion policy also informs Raumordnungspolitik by guiding funding for transport, housing, and regional innovation.

Historically, Raumordnungspolitik emerged in the mid-20th century to manage postwar reconstruction and economic integration. Over time it has evolved into a multi-level planning system that emphasizes coordination across government levels and sectors, with a focus on sustainable development and territorial cohesion.