Comparative Studies of Spatial Planning in Poland and Finland

Spatial Planning Policy is a subject of interest not only on a local, regional and national level but also from the perspective of European Spatial Development. In today's changing European context, the idea of spatial planning has undergone some changes. Increasingly cities are the subjects of interurban competition. There is often an approach that emphasizes the role of negotiation and public-private partnership in land development, to avoid tensions in decision making involved when establishing plans, and in order to accelerate implementation of planning. This paper concentrates on spatial planning policies and instruments which affect conditions for economic development, particularly at a local level. From the research perspective the spatial planning systems and instruments in Poland and Finland will be compared. Finland has a long tradition in supporting the implementation of urban development plans. The legislation, which strives for the promotion of the implementation of plans, has been developing gradually with time. Spatial planning system in Poland is the subject of growing criticism and consistent reforms. Cross-country studies can be useful for those, who are looking for improvements and possible adaptation of new mechanisms. The aim of the paper is to present some ideas for rethinking the mechanisms and processes of land-use policy.