First National Documents on Spatial Planning in Albania

FIRST NATIONAL DOCUMENTS
ON SPATIAL PLANNING
The New Urban Agenda

Head of Process
Eglantina Gjermenti
Minister of Urban Development
Coordinators
Adelina Greca
Nertil Jole
<strong>National</strong> Spatial Plan:
Team Leader:
Anisa Qorri
Team:
Albana Koçollari, Deni Klosi, Ditijon Baboçi, Ledio Allkja, Eleana Beruka,
Ismail Broli, Mirzeta Kashnica, Shpendi Balilaj, Bledi Dimo
Cross-sectorial Integrated Plan for the Coast:
Team Leader:
Albana Koçollari
Team:
Anisa Qorri, Ledio Allkja, Deni Klosi, Ditijon Baboçi, Bledi Dimo,
Shpendi Balilaj, Ernest Shtupani
Cross-sectorial Integrated Plan for the economic area Tirane - Durres:
Team Leader:
Deni Klosi, Ledio Allkja
Team:
Albana Koçollari, Doris Alimerko, Eduart Lika, Mikel Tanini
Special acknowledgments for their contribution
Angelo d’Urso
Hans-Juergen Cassens
Wilhelm Schulte
Jan Drews

Contributors
Ministry of Urban Development
Ministry of Economic Development, Trade and Entrepreneurship
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
Ministry of Energy and Industry
Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Water Resources
Ministry of Environment
Ministry of Culture
Ministry of Internal Affairs
Ministry of Justice
Faculty of Civil Engineering
Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism
Faculty of Geology and Mining
Agriculture University of Tirana
Epoka University
Polis University
European University of Tirana
Albanian Tourism Association
Confindustria Albania
Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Construction Consultancy institute
Embassy of the Kingdom of Netherlands
Netherland Enterprise Agency
PBL Nettherlands Environmental Assesment Agency
GIZ
TUDelft
CoPlan/PLGP
IABR
Iabr/UP
PLGP USAID
51N4E
.FABRIC
IC Consulenten
Rally Albania
Property Evaluation Association
Meine Pieter va Dijk
Gianni Brizzi
Luc-Emile Bouche-Florin
Foteini Stefani
Cezar Morar
Olov Schult
...........
Eduart Cani
Merita Meksi
Frida Pashako
Valbona Koçi
Elios Kovaçi
Alket Islami
Genc Veizaj
Mirela Koçollari
Edvin Kasimati
Florian Hasko
Ditjon Baboçi
Julian Papaproko
Aldo Merkoçi
Julian Bejko

© fation plaku

© rilind hoxha

CONTENTS
1. <strong>National</strong> Spatial Plan .............................................................................................
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
1.10
1.11
Methodology ........................................................................................................
NSP strategic objectives ......................................................................................
Policies ................................................................................................................
Vision ...................................................................................................................
Connective corridors ...........................................................................................
Main findings and guidelines on the territorial systems ..........................................
Urban System ......................................................................................................
Infrastructure System ..........................................................................................
Natural System .....................................................................................................
Water System ......................................................................................................
Agricultural System ..............................................................................................
2. Cross-sectoral Integrated Plan for the Coast .................................................
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
Goals ....................................................................................................................
Vision ...................................................................................................................
Strategic guidelines ..............................................................................................
Sectoral policies ...................................................................................................
The strategy of integrated coastal plan .................................................................
Important projects ...............................................................................................
3. Cross-sectoral Integrated Plan for the economic area Tirane – Durres ..
3.1 Goals ....................................................................................................................
3.2 Vision ...................................................................................................................
3.3 Strategic objectives .............................................................................................
3.3.1 Sustainable economic development .............................................................
3.3.2 Improving the quality of life in urban / rural areas ..........................................
3.3.3 Improvement of infrastructure, transport and mobility in the region ..............
3.3.4 Protection and improvement of the natural environmental quality ..................
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Fig.1
Vision Map

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1.
<strong>National</strong> Spatial Plan
This plan was drafted with the valuable contribution of a large number of experts
from various fields of economic, social, and environmental developmen, specialists,
technicians, employees of state administration, professors and representatives
from various fields of academia, members of non-profit organizations, business
representatives, local government representatives, as well as various citizens, that with
the active participation in a number of consultative meetings contributed to the drafting
of the vision for the development of Albania in the next 15 years. The plan is the
result of the joint and tireless work of specialists of the <strong>National</strong> Territorial Planning
Agency (NTPA) and the Ministry of Urban Development (MUD), who for about two
years contributed to finalize the document, which is the first of its kind for our country
that brings a framework of integrated territorial development incurred to date and sets
out a long-term development and quality model for Albania in 2030.
The <strong>National</strong> Spatial Plan (NSP) provides the strategic reference framework
for sustainable territorial development for the next 15 years, in order to ensure
balanced economic and social national development, responsible management of
natural resources, environmental protection, all while ensuring the rational land
use. The NSP is introduced not only as fulfillment of a legal obligation, but also as a
prerequisite to achieveing the governmental program objectives to enhance citizens’
welfare and national economic growth by reducing inequalities, strengthening the
strategic partnership with neighboring countries and implementation of policies
that foster competitiveness of economic sectors, thus ensuring integration in the
European Union.
NSP Albania 2030 is the highest-level instrument of territorial planning in Albania,
which addresses planning issues in an integrated manner, considering the Albanian
territory as a whole. Based on its principles, objectives and specifications, details
will be provided in terms of the lower hierarchy plans, national sectoral plans (NSP),
detailed plans for areas of national importance (DPANI), regional development plans
(RDP), sectoral plans at the regional level (SPRL), local general plans (LGP) and any
other territorial planning instrument stemming from the development needs.
This document prepares the ground for the harmonization of sectorial and crosssectoral
policies, which have an impact or associated effects on the territory,
structures and balances urban and rural developments, and provides a reliable
climate for long term investments.
The NSP is presented at a key moment for the territorial reorganization of Albania
as an instrument supporting and enabling the qualitative implementation of the
administrative territorial reform. It constitutes a key platform for the new regions

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and municipalities in the drafting of their regional and local plans.
The need for the NSP formulation is further highlighted within the framework of
coordination for successful implementation of the objectives of the Government of
the Republic of Albania 1 , such as:
Increase of the EU fund absorbing capacity and implementation of regional
development initiatives as a vital step toward integration;
Strategic link with the neighbors as the road to national economic recovery,
guaranteeing the efficiency of major infrastructure and economic regional
investments and the representation of Albania as a model and peace and stability
factor in the region;
Implementation of an economic, territorial and governing model at multiple
levels, which reduces disparities ensures diversity and economic independence in
a sustainable manner, ensures the self-recovery capacity of the Albanian economy,
promotes the economy of knowledge and innovation, and converges with the
European economy, while encouraging the Albanian economy toward progress;
Strengthening of sectors to increase GDP and employment in becoming key to
sustainability, adaptive and self-recovery capacity and the presentation of Albania
as an important link within the regional and international development network.
Sectors such as energy, agriculture, tourism, some extracting and processing
industries, should not compete among themselves for resources, but should be
complementary, enabling the ecosystem to provide services in a sustainable manner
and contribute to the enhancement of knowledge and innovation as an engine of the
future;
Protection of natural resources in function of the independence of sectors, and
economic and social independence of the whole territory.
1.1 Methodology
The methodology for drafting the NSP 2030 is based on three key and complementary
steps:
1. The metabolic analysis of the territory as a model applied for the identification
and analysis of the flows of materials and energy within specific territories. This
model provides the researchers with a framework through which to explore the
interactions of natural and human systems in specific regions. 2
2. Formulation of the Vision Statement.
3. Strategic Planning, as a technique applied in cities or towns, metropolitan areas,
and regions, integrates social, economic, financial, territorial, environmental,
governance, institutional and legal issues into a single framework. It establishes
the vision-based development and enables objectives, programs and action plans
for implementation. It has no strict regulatory nature. It sets up modalities to
address challenges, avoid barriers and effectively use opportunities and resources.
It is realized through participation.
The territorial metabolic analysis process was based on territorial inspection through
i) the approved sectorial strategies and those strategies under approval of central
institutions and ministries ii) inter-ministerial meetings, seminars with local and
foreign experts, associated with field visits, iii) data collection and analysis on flows
with the highest impact on territory development: water, food, energy and tourism.
1 According to the Governmental Program “Albania of next generation”, 2013-2017.
2 A broader definition is included in the DCM no. 671, dated 29.7.2015 “On approval of the Regulation
on Territorial Planning”, article 2, paragraph 19.

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The NSP objectives are
based on the objectives of
sustainable planning of
the key European planning
documents, such as the
European Territorial Agenda
2020, Strategy Evropa 2020,
Territorial Vision of Europe
2050, etc.
The formulation of the Vision Statement was an outcome of a process supported by
experts of the priority sectors of national growth attached to the central institutions
and representatives of non-profit associations and organizations 3 . The Vision
formulation followed the methodology and process described by ESPON 4 on drafting
the Territorial Vision (TEVI) Europe 2050. The working group pursued two methods
to prepare the vision: i) based on scientific facts and information; ii) based on
values and guided by policies. Both methods were implemented independently, but
they fed into each other until the final result. This method enables a vision based
on the existing and planned policies, including their challenges, and underlines the
planning dimension as a process. The formulated vision maintains a strategic, longterm,
comprehensive, and coherent character.
The strategic planning was focused on the objectives and the policies of the plan.
The territorial strategic proposals were made based on five primary systems
organized into corridors, zones and centers. The underlying elements considered in
these proposals are as follows:
ʧ potential for economic and multidimensional development determined by the
location, size, accessibility, and connectivity;
ʧ identifying local character conditioned by specific geographical, natural,
historical, cultural, traditional features of economic, urban, and social development;
ʧ security measures for natural disasters and climate changes.
1.2 NSP strategic objectives
I. Multi-dimensional integration in the European context;
II. Creating and enhancing a strong and competitive economic position of Albania
in the Balkans and Mediterranean regions;
III. Physical and territorial integrity of the historical, cultural, natural, and urban
landscape throughout the Albanian territory;
IV. Increase and improvement of quality of life for people, by promoting economic
growth, removing spatial inequalities, access barriers to economy, infrastructure,
and knowledge;
V. Promotion of the “right to the city”;
VI. Preparing the ground for regional development.
1.3 Policies
Development of national infrastructure connecting Albania with pan-European
transport corridors;
Development of Albania as an interconnecting infrastructure and energy center
for the Balkans;
Smart growth of the urban system through polycentric, densifying, and
comprehensive development;
Promotion and access to natural areas and landscape features. Rational
3 For further information, see Annex 1 on the participation process.
4 ESPON (European Spatial Planning Observation) is a EU program with its initial objective of
taking concrete steps toward ESDP (European Spatial Development Perspective) implementation,
especially to improve knowledge, research and information on the territorial development and to
be prepared for the EU territory enlargement. Currently, the mission of ESPON 2020 is to continue
work for the consolidation of the Network of European Territorial Observatory, and strengthen political
provision and use of credible, regular and comparative data.

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management of natural resources and cultural heritage, ensuring the preservation
of cultural identity and diversity, while facing growth and globalization. At the same
time, it makes them active and instrumental to the domestic economic growth by
reactivating them as assets, improving and increasing adequate access to them;
Development of multimodal and environmentally friendly transport system.
Promotion of integrated transport and new concepts of environmentally friendly
mobility. This transport supports the polycentric territorial development in achieving
a gradual progress that ensures equal access to infrastructure and economy;
Development of diversified energy infrastructure towards the renewable energy;
Integrated planning and development of distribution and connection flows of
communication, transport, food, and energy that provides a cohesive, efficient, and
quality development of the above mentioned corridors;
Hierarchical organization, specialization, and operational grouping of urban
centers;
Promotion of the “right to the city” for informal areas.
Albania & the Region
Aiming at the realization
of the spatial integration
and the balanced
distribution of flows
within the territory,
planning the connective
and distributive corridors,
and the hierarchy of the
urban centers, are at the
core of the NSP.
1.4 Vision Statement
This vision is based on particular assumptions and preconditions as follows:
urban population will increase in the centers of each level of the polycentric
network;
a stable, inherent political spirit will be created, contributing to peace and
integration in the Balkans;
development of strategies and adoption of concrete measures to deal with the
effects of climate change, including the present natural civil emergencies, will be a
priority of the governmental program;
sound institutional cooperation;
intensified decentralization of governance and its democratization;
sectoral and cross-sectoral service standards will be established, and serious
work will be done towards their achievement;
a free movement orientation policy will be outlined through strategic investments
and opening of new jobs, aiming at lowering the age dependency coefficient;
serious capacity building investments will be made to increase the EU funds
attraction ability;
a strong foundation and operational basis of information will be established,
without which the programming links of the vision implementation cannot function;
ownership of this vision will be guaranteed by the government, but also by
civil groups and political forces, as a vision of the future of the Albanians, far from
divisions and political differences.
Albania, a center integrated in the European infrastructure and economic system,
a diverse and competitive economy within the Balkans area, a state aiming at
equality in access, infrastructure, economy, and knowledge. Assuring the
protection of natural, historical, and cultural heritage with the aim of becoming
an authentic destination.
Development of the connecting and distributing corridors network of the country
is evaluated according to three levels of integration; European connection and
integration, strengthening of regional ties within the Balkans and the Mediterranean,
as well as interconnection and penetrability of the national territory. The aim is

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Fig.2
Vision statement schemes
to increase the accessibility from border regions and beyond, by ensuring that
communications and exchange in urban centers of national importance and access
will be fast, reliable, and straightforward.
1.5 Connective corridors
In the European context, the geographic position of Albania favors the deployment
of short connective roads crossing Europe, connecting member states on the edges
of the continent, but also to Asia and North Africa. The famous, ancient road,
Egnatia, and the harbors established at the Albanian coast since antiquity are
early indicators of this. The materialization of the European “central axis” roads
connecting Northern Europe and Southern European countries or countries of the
Gulf, is considered very important
Albania has benefited little from this advantageous position based on the fact that
the linking corridors of member countries have been built by bypassing Albania.
The political context and the long national isolation have been the main factors
preventing the integration in the core network of pan-European corridors, but, even
25 years after the political and economic liberalization, the pace to become part of
this network has been slow. Strategic plans that provide a long-term development
vision have lacked, to make this geographical factor active, positive for the country’s
development and integration into Europe. Now Albania is facing the concrete picture
of corridors of European Union countries, TEN-T. These pan-European corridors aim
at developing a “sound and competitive economy” of member states. As stated in
the report of the European Commission, for Central Network of corridors, 2013,
...these pan-European corridors are the basis of modal integration, interoperability,
coordinated development, and infrastructure management.
The strategy for the construction of these corridors will allow investments and
infrastructure works to be harmonic, to support efficient, innovative services and
multimodal transport, including railway services for medium and long distance.
1.6 Main findings & guidelines on the territorial systems
The spatial and territorial structure of Albania is strongly impacted by the
focus of investments and the existing infrastructure, which have influenced the
establishment and concentration of work places and settlements.
The employment structure in various of sectors has changed during the last 25
years;
ʧ <strong>First</strong>ly, as a result of the changes of the economic and political model, from a
society with centralized economy and based on state-owned property to a model
based on free trade and private property;
ʧ Secondly, the employment structure has also changed due to investments that
are influenced by the proximity and quality of the connective and communication
infrastructure, auxiliary services or qualifications, and the intellectual potential of
employable people provided by the specific cities or towns.
The territory is influenced by the movement of population from rural and
suburban areas to urbanized centers in the western lowland of the country and
by a high concentration of population in the central region, mainly in the Tiranë
– Durrës area. The result of these demographic, social, and economic trends has
led to a monocentric development of the country, high inequality of the economic

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Fig.3
Spatial territorial
development

and social development, as well as urban sprawl to the detriment of agricultural
lands and free natural zones. The rapid urbanization is concurrently associated
with a high concentration of businesses and population, reaching to some cities
and regions such as Tiranë – Durrës, the adequate density and concentration for
satisfactory economic performance.
This mode of development realized under the “laissez-faire” model has caused
high pressure to the demand for housing in rapidly urbanized areas, inadequacy
of the infrastructure for social, educational, and health services, as well as an
increase of the demand for transport. Regarding the spatial structure, the NSP
supports the polycentric, comprehensive, and densifying territory development
for the purpose of smart growth, reduction of economic and social inequalities,
with the aim of balanced spatial development. NSP emphasizes the main role of
the Tiranë – Durrës economic pole for the economic growth it provides at national
level. To ensure a sustainable development of its economic performance, this region
should be developed through balanced consolidating, renewing, conservating, and
re-developmeing interventions.
NSP proposes the empowerment of the urban system with other important national
centers regarding the potentials they offer for a balanced territorial development,
and the establishment of connective and communication infrastructure, human
resources, the tradition of historical and cultural development such as Shkodër,
Lezhë, Vlorë, Fier, Sarandë, Gjirokastër, Elbasan, Berat, Korçë, Pogradec, along with
the surrounding urban centers, to be economically developed at comparative levels
with Tiranë - Durrës. Their coordinated development would balance the monocentric
attraction to the central region of the country.
The space of national coastal region is recognized by the NSP as the a region
of national importance in terms of the sustainable development it should provide,
and the primary role it has in the tourism, energy, agriculture, and infrastructure
sectors. In this region, conservation-oriented interventions should be developed for
the areas of historical, cultural, and environmental heritage importance, as well as
consolidating interventions for the areas formed by the urban morphology with
a potential of re-development for the newly urbanized areas, but without proper
quality and densification of the existing urban areas within their accommodation
capacity, without affecting the characteristic features of the natural and historical
landscape.
Demands for employment growth and development of economic sectors towards
a territory non-consuming or non-degrading economy, suggest an approach of
integration policies that promote complementary cooperation of the sectoral,
agricultural, touristic, energy sectors, and promotion for novelty and their
cooperation and specialization, associated with an increase and improvement of
the employment access to the urban centers of the rural areas towards the nearest
urban centers.
While the regional development pace is accelerated, new demands will arise
for housing, services, spaces for allocation or expansion of economic sectors,
infrastructure and beyond. NSP proposes that the development of spatial-territorial
unit should be supported by the growth of the national transport network,
which provides improved service of public transport and strengthens access
and penetrability across the national territory. This network should provide the
international link of the country via the port cities to the neighboring countries of
the Balkans region and beyond to the Mediterranean and Europe.
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18
Fig.4
Urban System
hierarchy of urban centers
& spatial interconnection of
functional areas

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The policy guiding the
proposed urban system
structure is the establishment
and strengthening of dynamic,
attractive, and competitive
cities in urbanized regions.
1.7 Urban System
In order to reduce the inherited inequality, the <strong>National</strong> Plan for the urban system
proposes:
Polycentric spatial development and a new urban-rural relationship;
Control of the physical expansion of cities and urbanized areas, thus promoting
densification instead of urban distribution;
Better access to multimodal infrastructure, which is not only more effective but
also more environmental friendly;
Mixed and complementary functions;
Rational use and management of the urban ecosystem, in particular of water,
energy, and waste;
Conservation and development of natural assets and historical cultural heritage
in the sense of the improvement and involvement of these assets in the urban life.
The plan introduces the hierarchy of centers and their profiling in accommodating
the appropriate economic sectors by making use of the existing and proposed
potentials. The plan introduces:
a. 6 primary economic poles, otherwise referred to as primary economic
functional zones added to the economic pole of Tiranë - Durrës;
b. 12 primary urban centers;
c. 9 secondary urban centers;
d. 39 tertiary urban centers;
e. 61 specialized local centers.
This hierarchy orients the investments of central, local government and projects in
harmony with the new demands of urban development to cover 100% the primary
services for citizens, thus guaranteeing the quality of urban life.
The vitality of cities goes toward intensification of the relations with cities sharing
similar economic growth, but also with the surrounding areas and beyond; real-time
response to the economic growth trends, innovation, and demographic changes.
The attractive cities are expected to be developed in two main aspects:
ʧ <strong>First</strong>ly, by investing in the improvement of urban life quality through the
primary services of education, health, recreation, culture, art, public infrastructure,
environmental quality, air, security, etc. All these represent key components in
attracting the adequate population to live and work therein, a population which
becomes the critical mass that is the prerequisite for the development of a
sustainable market, thus preparing the grounds for the development of different
economic sectors.
ʧ Secondly, by investing in their existing urban and natural assets. Reassessing the
unique features constituting their territory, and as a result attractive not only to the
tourism sector, but also to other economic sectors.
Competitiveness promotes the development of cities and characteristic economic
sectors therein. Primary centers will intensify the infrastructure of primary services
to health and education, adequate to meet the demands of urban centers within the
45-minute travel of their service radius. Investments in infrastructure to increase
the population access from the surrounding areas to the primary center. Specialized
centers or otherwise referred to, as talented cities, will be developed in harmony
with their potentials, in order to become attractive cities where to live and work.

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Fig.5
Infrastructure System
transportation

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Regarding the main urban
centers, an assessment should
be made to transform them
into Key Cities, <strong>National</strong>
Entry-Exit Gates. Cities
where not only national
roads of primary importance
connecting the European
Corridors are intersected,
but also the provision for the
transport and exchange of
alternative goods via the rail
and water transport.
1.8 Infrastructure System
The importance of the infrastructure system for the accomplishment of the NSP
2030 vision, Albania as energy “hub” for the region and a connecting hub for
Southeastern Europe, the spatial integration of the country, and the balanced
distribution of flows within the territory depends on the further capacity development
of the transport of people, goods, energy, and information, as well as improvements
in terms of time efficiency, cost reduction, and distance shortening.
Physical infrastructure, public transport, energy, and communication are of special
importance to the NSP, as they directly affect the establishment, expansion, and time
relevance of a particular development. Other economic and social infrastructure
such as water-sanitation supply system, treatment of wastewater, transport,
disposal and treatment of waste, schools, hospitals are required to be established in
accordance to the concentration of population and fulfillment of the requirements
for the adequate achievement of a balanced spatial development of the country.
Regionalized waste management will be treated with priority, focusing on the
efficient use, low-cost, and competitive management, in order to bring developed
sectors of the processing industry in the country.
Transport
ʧ Drafting of joint cross-border projects with focus on the increase of interconnection
and exchanges through the improvement of transport infrastructure.
ʧ As for all secondary centers, a transport network enabling the fast connection of
those centers to the primary urban center, which is the center providing specialized
and more advanced public services, is foreseen.
ʧ Unification of the transport corridors with the energy corridors not only for the
corridors in the plan to be drafted, but also the assessment of existing ones.
ʧ Forecasting national roads of historical and touristic character, e.g. revitalization
of the historical road Via Egnatia as a tourist road, where the cooperation with
historians at this point is essential.
ʧ Reduction of the emission of pollutants (Co2) until 2030 through investments
in technology, innovation and capacity development (the target of Europe for 2030
is the reduction of emissions up to 60% for the transport in general). Promotion of
the use of new environment-friendly technologies in transport, as well as the use
of electricity, hydrogen, and hybrid technologies for the long-distance transport of
goods.
ʧ Promotion of public inter-city transport and alternative transport via “soft”
infrastructure”, bikeway and pedestrian path.
Road Transport
The NSP sets as a strategic priority the implementation and finalization of the
strategic projects connecting Albania to Europe:
Adriatic- Ionian Highway - Muriqan, Shkodër - Gjirokastër, Kakavije.
Northern-southern highway (connection between Montenegro and Greece, from
Hani i Hotit in Shkodër and Gjirokastër through the border point of Kakavije, with
a length of 405 km);
Landscape coastal road (touristic coastal road of a low environmental impact,
connecting the coastal localities : Velipojë - Shëngjin, Shëngjin - Patok, Patok -
Durrës, Durrës - Divjakë, Divjakë - Seman, Seman - Vlorë, Vlorë - Dhërmi, Dhërmi

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Fig.6
Energetics - Industry
infrastructure system

23
- Sarandë, Sarandë - Butrint) 5
Corridor VIII as a primary road for the transport of goods (shortest connection
of the Mediterranean Sea with the Black Sea; Durrës Varna/Durrës - Stamboll) and
Via Egnatia as a historical road of tourist importance.
Central Axis (Elbasan - Berat - Gjirokastër);
Rruga e Arbërit (Arbri Road) (Tiranë - Dibër - Maqedoni) as a branch of Corridor
VIII
Rruga e Kombit (Nation’s Road) (Durrës - Kukës - Pristina - Nish) as one of the
corridors with the highest impact on the region due to the connection to Kosovo
(Pristina to corridor X).
NSP Rail Transport proposes
ʧ Restruction of the railway system of the national lines connecting Albania to
Macedonia and Montenegro and the whole network of the Balkans and Europe.
Montenegro – Shkodër –Vlorë, Durrës – Elbasan – Pogradec, connection to
Macedonia – Korçë. For the territory near Ohrid lake, the shifting of the railway
trajectory inside the territory, in an attempt to not harm the unique values of Ohrid
Lake, a zone which aims to be part of the Unesco heritage, is suggested;
ʧ Construction of railway lines to support the inter-city movement for long distances
and cross-border movement;
ʧ Establishment of multimodal systems;
ʧ Connection of the airports to the railway transport;
ʧ Connection of the rail lines to the main harbors.
Air and Maritime Transport
ʧ Strengthening of the existing harbor structures, harbors of national and regional
importance, with the intention of enhancing their processing and exporting of goods
capacities, and transport of passengers at a competing level within the Balkans and
Mediterranean regions. Increase of the number of touristic marines, in compliance
with the physical capacity of the Albanian coast, for the purpose of the development
of an elite coastal tourism sector, which is environmental friendly and in harmony
with the physical territorial features of the natural landscape of our coast.
ʧ Development of 4 main harbors for Albania, as starting points of maritime
highways:
ʧ Harbor of Durrës (mixed functions: touristic, passengers, goods and fishing,
Porto Romano-energy-related harbor);
ʧ Vlora Harbor (mixed functions: touristic, passengers, goods and fishing.
Petrolifera energy-related harbor);
ʧ Harbor of Shëngjin (mixed functions: touristic, passengers and fishing);
ʧ Harbor of Sarandë (mixed functions: touristic, passengers and fishing).
Energy corridors
The energy and gas distribution network, in the future, in Albania is expected to be
integrated with the transport corridors, crossing the whole country.
The main priorities in this framework are:
Improvement of the energy supply all over the western region, the northeastern,
5 According to the report of the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure on infrastructure priority
projects for the year 2014.

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Fig.7
Natural System

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Fig.8
Natural System
Diagrams
A. Emerald network
B. Proposed national parks
C. Natural corridors
A )
and the southeastern farthest regions of the country, thus increasing with a larger
access to the national network, e.g. ensuring progress in the national connecting
network proposed by the transmission lines toward Kosovo and Macedonia.
Strengthening the energy supply networks within the existing and proposed
harbors.
Strengthening the energy supply network supporting special employment
groups in relation to the demands in processing industrial areas, with special focus
on the areas foreseen as free economic zones.
A better integration between the electricity network in Southern Albania and
Southeastern Albania.
B )
Strategic Projects
TAP – completion of the Trans Adriatic Pipeline Project;
IAP – Ionian Adriatic Pipeline. It will cross the western part of Albania, from Fier
to Shkodër, towards Montenegro with two branches in Ulqin and Podgoricë. Gas
infrastructure;
IAP-Kosovo. IAP is branched off in the region of Shkodër - Lezhë, to supply
Kosovo through Kukës, building the Western Ring of the Balkans. (Western Balkan
Ring - WBR);
The polycentric development of Albania suggests the gasification for the six main
economic national poles, a strategic project, which has started to be implemented
with the Drafting of the Gas Masterplan, initiated by the Ministry of Energy and
Industry.
1.9 Natural System
The land usage as a result of growth and development simultaneously, causes the
constant loss of vacant spaces along with their functions, in support of the natural
ecosystems and climate protection, recreation, and their economic capacity functions
for forestry and agriculture, production of renewable energy, and protection of
the underground sources of the relevant areas. Within the <strong>National</strong> Spatial Plan,
the environment is not a surface area protected by human activity, but an asset
safeguarded for the people and the sustainable economic development.
C )
The sustainable development of the natural system is an NSP major objective.
This objective aims to be achieved through the following policies:
ʧ Increase of national responsibility for the present and future generations,
combining the concepts of sustainability and proper administration of natural
assets;
ʧ Protection and enlargement of the protected natural areas; creation of a
sustainable and communicative environmental system;
ʧ Enhancement of the environment’s role in the national economic growth;
integration of the natural system in the economic value of development sectors;
ʧ Enhancement of the environment’s role in the quality of urban life through the
promotion and creation of proper access to the natural areas.
Furthermore, a proposal is made for the Emerald network to be added to the protected
areas network. As a whole, it represents a network where ecosystems, habitats,
types, landscapes and other natural features of pan-European importance will be

26
Fig.9
Water System

27
The NSP approach to this
system is manifested
through two concepts:
PROMOTION & ACCESS
In this framework, the
Strategic Projects proposed
by the NSP is the extension
of the three national parks
in the national network of
protected areas:
Park of Alps
Park of Buna
Park of Vjosa
preserved in accordance to the law requirements and provisions. The protected area
system will also include natural corridors, to be considered as suitable spaces for
the development of a soft, environmental friendly infrastructure.
d. Achieving the target of 20% of territorial protected land and 15% of maritime
protected area until 2030;
e. Creation of recreational spaces and natural attractions along river valleys;
f. Development of the national bike network, which acesses and crosses natural
areas and historical and cultural heritage areas;
g. Increase of public participation in the decision-making process and enforcement
of decisions for the good management of the natural system;
h. Consolidation and enhancement of performance for the good management of
nature, Protected Areas, and biodiversity, for the stakeholders at central and local
government level;
i. Integration of management plans with the planning systems and local plans;
j. Concurrent development of general local plans and the management plans, in
order to achieve the cohesion of planning instruments regarding the forecasts and
timeframes;
k. Surface increase of protected maritime and coastal areas in accordance to the
Aichi Convention of Biodiversity for 2020 objectives;
l. Promotion of natural assets use for recreational purposes and eco-tourism
promotion;
m. Sustainable, ecologic, and economic management of protected areas;
n. Integration of Albania in the Balkans and European context through the projects
on “Dinaric Arc Ecoregion” and “Europian Green Belt”;
o. Inclusion of the natural system in the economic development chain;
p. Re-forestation and regeneration projects in degraded areas due to natural
phenomena such as erosion and floods, but also due to human activity.
1.10 Water System
The <strong>National</strong> spatial plan is developed based on the national demands for sustainable
development in line with the present national priorities, the Governmental Program
for sustainable socio-economic development, as well as the European directives for
development priorities.
The Albanian territory is covered by 65 % of the total surface of water basins in the
Balkans, roughly 43.900 km2. Albania is a mountainous country with a coastal line
of approximately 450 km and is distinguished by a dense and rich hydrographic
network composed of rivers, sources, lakes, and waters of the coastal space in the
Adriatic and Ionian seas. Within this space, there are the estuaries and deltas of
8 main rivers of Albania formed by more than 152 rivers and streams. About 65%
of their catchment basins is extended within the Albanian territory, lagoon system
with a total surface of approximately 1500 km2, large sandy and rocky beaches,
series of wetlands, littoral belts, system of sandy dunes, forests, etc. All these
factors, along with the typical Mediterranean climate, make the Albanian coastal
area one of high ecological values. The relation of water to the other sectors of
economy is primary for Albania. It would suffice to mention that:
ʧ 99% of the energy we use comes from the exploitation of water sources,
ʧ 14 billion m3 of water is used for the energy sector,
ʧ 1.5 billion m3 of water is used for the agricultural sector.
The NSP addresses issues of the water system in terms of the potable water supply,
water for agricultural use, for land drainage and irrigation, water as a source of

28
Fig.10
Agriculture System

29
The policies supported by
the <strong>National</strong> Plan in this
regard are:
1. Preservation
2. Consolidation
3. Modernization
energy, impact of the water system due to climate changes.
Policies of urban development densification and natural corridors along river valleys
are the primary policies, which the <strong>National</strong> Plan brings in support of this system.
The NSP marks the blue line for the protection of water sources from prohibited
uses and private use.
ʧ 200 m distance from the maritime shoreline and at the same time, 2 m izoipsos
for the flat seashore, and 60 m izoipsos for the rocky coast.
ʧ 100 m distance from the river shore for river flows, prohibition of every activity,
and the 1 km belt of natural corridors associating their flow is maintained only for
use with nature as priority.
ʧ Protection of the Vjosa Catchment Basin, declaring it an Area of Protected
Landscape. Vjosa is distinguished from other rivers in the Balkans for the high
level of water potential, geological construction of the formations along it, and the
diversity of landscapes across the valley.
ʧ Demands for the safe supply of inhabited settlements is closely linked to the
technical requirements of water supply infrastructure. In this regard, the document
introduces some of the legal requirements to be taken into account when drafting
territorial plans for safer potable water supply.
ʧ Furthermore, the NSP document introduces the risks and proposes measures for
the protection and adaption of the climate changes, especially for the water system.
1.11 Agricultural System
Agriculture has traditionally been one of the important branches of economic
development in Albania. Agricultural products are part of the formation of regional
identity of the country, with a wide range of environmental, natural, and climatic
changes. While technological developments will replace the human role in many
agricultural processes, this sector remains the primary source of economic income
and employment opportunities in rural areas. However, the agricultural sector will
have to face and adapt to the constantly growing customer demands as a result of
the modernization and restructuring of marketing typology and the consequences
of climate changes. Efficiency in the food and agriculture sector, together with
fisheries and forestry, as well as diversification of farmers’ activities are key
components of the rural economy.
ʧ Even in the agricultural system, the polycentric development of the country
highlights the need for defining and identifying the main agricultural poles of the
country. Given the geographical position of the agricultural land, classification
of local economies, the history of development in the agricultural economy, and
the connective infrastructure network, about 40% of the total area of Albania is
classified as agricultural land (24% arable land and 15 percent of pastures) and the
rest is divided between forests (36 percent) and other functions.
ʧ 43% of the agricultural land, almost half of it, is concentrated in the most
populated part of the coastal western lowland. About 34% of agricultural land lies in
river valleys and 23% in the mountainous area.
ʧ 20% of the GDP comes as a contribution of the agricultural sector, but the greatest
contribution of this sector is the number of employees therein, approx. 50%.
ʧ The highest challenge in the sector is the reduction of the commercial imbalance
in the ratio between the import of agro-food products (increased by 40% in 2012
compared to 2007, while exports are increased at an evenhigher rate, ie 75% for
respective periods).
Maximum preservation of the agricultural land fund - through policies of

30
Fig.11
Regionalization of
agricultural products
Field products
Fruit trees
Viniculture
Olive groves
Citrus
Farming

31
The NSP proposals for an
Efficient Agricultural System,
for a competitive agricultural
sector consist on:
1. Preservation
2. Consolidation
3. Modernization
urban development densification. With the adoption of the <strong>National</strong> Plan 2030,
new constructions which do not serve the agricultural system are not allowed on
agricultural land.
ʧWell-functioning of the natural ecosystem by protecting it through bandages /
green corridors along waterways (rivers).
ʧReforestation of degraded forests and planting new areas of woodland in free
natural areas, while respecting the identity of the relevant forest area.
Establishment a successful network of agricultural economic chain: production
- collection - processing - marketing, in order to increase the value of the economic
chain.
Reduction of the cost and increase of quality through investments in:
ʧproduction technology for its modernization;
ʧinvestment in maintenance infrastructure, irrigation canals, pumping stations, etc.
Integration and cooperation with other sectors of the economy:
ʧAgriculture - tourism, where the peculiarity of the Albanian tourism sector is
identified also by agricultural products which are typical in taste and quality.
ʧAgriculture - transport, where transport infrastructure serves enhancing the
efficiency of the agricultural network in the collection and marketing of agricultural
products.
ʧAgriculture - Energy, where the energy used in the processing of agricultural
products goes towards the use of renewable resources.
Creation of centers / agricultural poles and profiling of the latter based on the
tradition of cultivation of local crops.
Creating brands of characteristic Albanian agricultural products - Made in
Albania. Specialization in the cultivation and processing of typical Albanian
products, such as:
ʧ Medicinal plants
ʧ Fruit trees, nut trees
ʧ Olives and vineyards
ʧ Characteristic vegetables of the country
ʧ Processed agricultural products
The NSP proposes the consolidation of 6 agricultural poles in
urban centers, Tiranë, Lushnje, Sarandë, Shkodër, Korçë & Dibër.
Determination of these centers as agricultural poles, necessarily means the
possessing and providing of some facilities to agricultural products.
In these centers, it is foreseen the establishment and consolidation of:
ʧ Research centers for analysis of the agricultural product,
ʧ Building structures with sufficient capacity for the collection, processing and
packaging of various agricultural products of local farmers,
ʧ The creation of local markets for the promotion and marketing of bio-organic
products, maintaining remote mountainous areas, forestry, fodder and other areas
suitable for the cultivation of aromatic plants from informal abusive interventions,
in order to ensure the continuity of cultivation and collection of various types of
aromatic plants, which are widely used in the pharmaceutical market,
ʧ Promoting research and development links between innovation centers and
processing of food products in order to form the country’s agricultural points/ poles.

32
Fig.12
Vision map of
Coastal Plan

33
2.
Cross-sectoral Integrated Plan for the Coast
The integrated coastal plan is a strategic document which aims to develop a balanced,
controlled, and sustainable coastal area. This strategic document for the next 15 years
aims at addressing the coastal space as a well-integrated territory of both the interior
territory and the maritime space. It aims at the creation of an integrated and interrelated
system of the tourism, culture, agriculture and nature sectors. Diversification of the
touristic package of the coast, which will also lead to the extension of the tourist season,
while turning the country into an attractive destination.
2.1 Goals
ʧ To ensure sustainable development of the coastal space that meets the needs of
generations to social equity, economic development, and environmental protection.
ʧ To harmonize public, private, national and local interest;
ʧ To orient development on the coast, while preserving its values.
ʧ To convert the coast in a shared space that everyone can enjoy.
ʧ To fairly and equally spred the services in the coastal space.
ʧ To use an integrated system that attempts to balance and harmonize the
development sectors.
2.2 Vision
The Coastal Plan expresses a clear, measurable, and achievable vision: The coast
as a national and important binomial sea-land asset and an integrated part of the
Mediterranean network. A well-managed space where the needs for economic
development and the local needs are harmonized with the necessity to protect the
cultural, natural, and historical assets. An authentic, diverse, and clean destination.
The plan expresses directly the need of the coastal area to be integrated within
the Mediterranean network; it sets a significant emphasis on protecting assets by
managing the diversity that the Albanian coast offers, and by interconnecting them,
it also aims at preserving the authentic traditional and local character, and the
cleanliness of this area as an opportunity to turn it into a unique destination.
2.3 Strategic Guidelines
The strategic orientations of the cross-sectoral intedgated plan of the coast are:
Preserving the identity of the coastal zone,
Managing and storing the natural and cultural resources along this area,
Interconnecting the coastal area with the interior of the territory to deliver
diversified tourism (from the coast to the mountains)
It orients the new development in harmony and coordinated with existing
developments, while preserving the traditional architecture,
It also recommends promotion as an efficient instrument for the attraction and
development of not only tourism, but also of other sectors.

34
Fig.13
Four Coastal Strips

35
Fig.14
Development sectors
Urban system
Infrastructure system
2.4 Sectoral Policies
The vision and strategic objectives are embodied in the territory through concrete
policies for 5 territorial systems. The main goal of the plan is the harmonization and
cohesion of development sectors.
The Urban System - Consolidation, densification, and regeneration of residential
areas and the orientation towards the inland development, preserving the traditional
architecture.
Infrastructure System - Connection to the main European corridors, covering
the entire coast with primary infrastructure and promotion of the use of ecological
infrastructures.
The Natural System - Preservation and development of various characters in the
coastal area and the promotion of landscape values.
The Water System - The good-management of the hydro system and the growth
of its use for the benefit of residents.
The Agricultural System - The subsidizing of the agricultural sector and support
for the development of agro-tourism.
Natural system
Water system
Agricultural system
2.5 The strategy of Integrated Coastal Plan
Strategy, as the most important part of this document, translates the analysis
conclusions and the vision guidelines, objectives, and policies in the cross-sectoral
strategy for the coastal area development. The chapter on Strategy starts with the
Integration of the Albanian coast in the Mediterranean space, through the project
of the Coastal Landscape Road, which aims at connecting the entire coast of the 26
Mediterranean countries. Furthermore, in the European and the Balkan context,
this integration is realized through the pipeline project, TAP, and its sub-sections.
Integration through other international projects, in environment and tourism.
Strips
The Strategy section then follows with scenarios and proposals for the development
of four Coastal strips, through their interconnection with each other, as they can not
function disconnected.
In the first strip, Sea-Sun, the diversified development of the coast is intended, the
protection from chaotic development and its well-management. The aim of the plan
for the development of this strip is the promotion of tourism activities that do not
harm the environment and do not alter the character of the area.
The second strip, which is considered as the agricultural strip aims to protect the
agricultural land, its development is related to other sectors of development such as
tourism, food industry, etc., In this strip the development of 3 poles for agricultural
products processing, including all levels of processing, is proposed.
The third strip, the one with cultural potentials, is considered the strip containing
the largest number of cultural monuments at the national level. For this strip the
good-management of cultural monuments, their promotion, and a better liaison
with other potentials of the country as coastal areas and natural attractions at the
national level, is intended.
The fourth strip is considered the one of 12 nautical miles. For this strip, the plan
aims its activization thanks to a significant potential on the coast and the good
connection between activities that take place here with various tourist activities

36
Fig.15
Tourism map

37
developed in the terrestrial space. Through various planning instruments as green
corridors, nature trails, various activities, services, etc., a good connection of the
four coastal strips and the development of activities in different spaces to diversify
the package of attractions for tourism development, is aimed for this area.
Zones
After providing general guidelines and policies for the four coastal strips, the plan
focuses more on the first one, the coast Sun-Sea, and divides it into four areas
according to the identity which has naturally created coastal zones.
ʧ Zone1, Shkodra, Lezha, Kurbin (Areas with a strong natural character)Protection
of the environment and cultural values. Access to natural and cultural values
through low environmental impact infrastructure.
ʧ Zone2, Durrës, Kavaja (An area of economic character) Integration into the clusters
that will be developed in the Tiranë-Durrës region and on the coastal ones. Access to
natural and cultural values through low environmental impact infrastructure.
ʧ Zone3, Rrogozhinë, Divjaka, Fier (An area with a strong agricultural identity)
Completion of the agricultural production cycle from production to packaging to
support the development of agro-tourism.
ʧ Zone 4, Vlorë, Himarë, Saranda, Konispol (An area with priority in the development
of the beach and cultural tourism) Promoting tourism potentials and domestic
production. Stimulation of traditional architecture.
2.6 Important Projects
Amongst the important projects for the Cross-sectoral Integrated Plan for the Coast
were selected those projects that directly meet the realization of the vision, among
which are:
ʧ The increase in capacity and service functions in each of the existing national
ports: Shëngjin, Durrës, Vlorë, Sarandë.
ʧ The development of at least one tourist marine (for elite tourism), in each of the 4
zones of the coast.
ʧ The coastal landscape road (Muriqan - Qafë Botë) of local character.
ʧ Itineraries which connect the coast to the interior of the territory.
ʧ Realization of basic infrastructure for all coastal centers that offer tourism.
ʧ Realization of 4 economic clusters along the coast, which would create 4 important
poles for the coastal development.
ʧ Development of marine sports and activities related to them (navigation education,
fishing, windsurf, etc.).
ʧ Development of marines and turning harbors to attraction poles.
ʧ The development of agro-tourism.
ʧ The development of local inns.
ʧ Restoration, conservation, and promotion of cultural monuments.
ʧ Development of the irrigation and drainage system in agriculture.
ʧ Development of factories / workshops, wherein the processing from raw material
to final product of typical local food products, is made.
ʧ The development of vocational schools for tourism, and educational and
environmental awareness raising projects.
Planning Regulation
The document ends with a clear regulation on standards and criteria to be respected
by any new interference in the coastal territory.

38
Fig.16
Vision map

39
3.
Cross-sectoral Integrated Plan for the economic
area Tirane – Durres
The Albanian Government and the <strong>National</strong> Spatial Plan have identified the Tiranë-
Durrës area, as one of the most important economic areas of the country, and of the
Balkan region. To ensure a sustainable territorial and urban development of this
area, the Ministry of Urban Development in cooperation with the <strong>National</strong> Territorial
Planning Agency has taken the initiative to draft a Cross-sectoral Integrated Plan for
the economic area Tiranë – Durrës. The metropolitan region under study includes
territories administered by 5 municipalities: Tiranë, Durrës, Vorë, Shijak, Kamëz.
In our vision, this economic zone is seen as a significant hub of the Balkans, as a
national and regional economic center, able to compete worthily in the Balkan area
and in Eastern Europe, ensuring sustainable development for the people and the
territory. The plan will serve as a guide for the new municipalities to coordinate
policies, projects and their local plans, between each other as well as for vertical
coordination and reconciliation. This plan should be used by them in the process
of drafting local general plans and strategic projects in order to be more efficient
in public and private investments. Finally, it also serves as a guarantee for foreign
investors and businesses, who are interested in being involved in the further
development of this economic area.
3.1 Goals
ʧ Return to a sustainable model for regional development.
ʧ Help meet the aspirations and achievements of future generations, youth, and
families.
ʧ Consolidate and regenerate urban and rural areas.
ʧ Strengthen and promote regional economic networks.
ʧ Develop infrastructure and promote regional sustainable mobility.
3.2 Vision
The Tirane-Durres economic region, a leader economy competing at international
level, as an important economic and political space, which manages to compete with
other metropolitan regions by attracting headquarters of programs and international
institutions based on innovative investments, which promote creative businesses
based on knowledge and promote a higher level of education and professional
skills. A region with a high quality of life that promotes and respects the healthy
living styles, access to quality health services, and the development of sustainable
communities. One of the most important economic areas of the Western Balkans, of
high prosperity and driven by significant changes in employment and competitive
infrastructure, where mobility and access to local, national, and international
levels are appropriate to the needs and demands of the residents and businesses,

40
Fig.17
Economy map

41
Within the fulfillment of the
vision are defined four key
strategic objectives:
1. The sustainable economic
development
2. Improvement of the quality
of life in urban / rural areas
3. Improvement of
infrastructure, transport and
mobility in the region
4. Protection and
improvement of the natural
environment quality
thanks to transportation solutions, which link communities with employment
opportunities and local services, control and reduce traffic, and improve strategic
ties, by rail, sea, and air. A region that values the historical and cultural past,
which competes metropolises of the Western Balkans, turning Tiranë-Durrës in an
attractive environment to local and international talent, of a creative labor force,
which is compatible with and preserves the high economic diversity characterizing
the region.
3.3.1 Strategic objective 1: sustainable economic development
The economic region Tiranë-Durrës is the economic pivot of Albania. Consequently,
it will continue to remain “the economic engine” of the country and will turn into a
competitive region in the Western Balkans. The region will turn into a space which
supports the principles of global economic competition, the creation of economic
clusters, based on the principles of metabolism, whereby the production and further
development is carried out under the paradigm of a closed cycle, where the waste
of one process are used as the raw material of another process.
Spatial Dimension of Economic Development
The plan aims at a continuous and sustainable economic development as an
international gateway of economic activities through:
ʧ The development of four economic clusters in compact urban centers with
specialized functions, supported by an Economic Development Zone, as well as
ports with specialized functions.
ʧ Supporting with economic incubators for the development of entrepreneurship
and innovation.
ʧ Focusing on the increase of the number of business structures in Tiranë-Durrës
Economic Corridor, powering mobility with multimodal trasport and logistics
centers that enable efficient access nationally. The creation of Economic Corridors
and Centers with specialized Economic Poles.
ʧ The integrated development of tourism strategies in urban centers, with a focus
on Service Tourism and Weekend Tourism, to create regional branding and regional
brands. Increase of natural areas and cultural itineraries, interlinked, in support of
sustainable environmental development and the development of natural and agrorural
tourism.
Polycentrism and hierarchization of Urban Centres
Establishment of a clear hierarchy between the centers of urban-rural region, which
will allow the specialization and complementary relationship of these centers in
relation to each other, it will create conditions for increasing the efficiency of public
investment, improving living conditions, and will lead the increase of the population
in compact specialized urban centers by hierarchy, while safeguarding the territory
from unsustainable development.
3.3.2 Strategic objective 2: improving the quality of life in urban /
rural areas
The chaotic development of the last decades associated also with informal
development provides a difficult urban overview. Viewing the high concentration of
urban areas in the region, it is aimed at the improvement of the quality of life and
environment for residents in the Tiranë-Durrës area, attracting talents and foreign
companies, beyond the local ones. Consequently, the urban-rural quality shall turn

42
Fig.15
Infrastructure
system map

43
Fig.18
Infrastructure
system scheme
Fig.19
Urban system scheme
Fig.20
Economy scheme
into an advantage for this plan. The development of urban centers is based on:
ʧ Consolidation of urban centers, through densification and regeneration.
ʧ Integration of informal settlements in urban centers through completion of the
legal process of legalization and the transformation of informal settlements, in
integrated spaces into the urban system.
ʧ Housing and social dwellings for all the social strata creating suitable spaces for
changes in population demographics. “Intelligent” density on human scale, with the
use of “mix-use” interrelated with services.
ʧ Comprehensive Regional Community space with accessibility for all groups and
individuals. Urban spaces, squares, and infrastructure designed to meet the needs
of all communities and particularly of disabled people.
ʧ Improvement of energy efficiency in housing and social buildings will be based
on the reduction of the energy costs, increase of the quality of life, and protection of
the environment. Encouraging the use of green terraces, as common property. The
use of photovoltaic panels in residential and social buildings. The establishment of
residential blocks with “green” certificates and differentiated taxation system.
A plan of urban sustainable mobility will be developed to meet the needs of mobility
within urban centers with mixed functions, for people and services, offered by
businesses through the development of public transport system and multimodal
system, alternative transport methods without pollution, efficiency of urban
logistics systems.
Sustainable rural development
Rural development aims at the welfare of the population in rural areas, improving
and meeting the community needs of these centers, and the creation of the necessary
infrastructure for agricultural development in harmony with environmental
development, while creating integrated systems for;
ʧ The creation of territorial spaces for the consolidation of agricultural land,
offering economies of scale in agricultural products and services specializing in
regional cultures, in the peri-urban and rural territories of the region.
ʧ The establisment of an administered system of water resources for irrigation in
agriculture, based on the water basins resources and the regional rivers Ishëm and
Erzen. Improvement of the water drainage infrastructure of the agricultural land.
ʧ The economic development of farms and agricultural cooperatives, the creation of
support activities for the development and efficiency of products in the agricultural
system through certification centers, collection centers, processing of products,
and agricultural incubators, thus creating closed agricultural economic cycles
and a regional self-sustainable food chain, supported by certified tradenames,
strengthening Regional Branding.
ʧ The creation of quick regional access roads for the movement of agricultural
goods and human capital from the rural centers towards urban centers, creating
opportunities for on-time placing of products on the market.
ʧ The consolidation of rural centers and public services allocated in the territory,
recovery of rural centers should be developed according to a chronology where
investment can maximize the benefits for local communities. Rural services and
community development, fulfillment of the needs for accommodation services
to rural communities is an obligation to ensure the longevity and well-being of
rural communities, relying on the facilitation of rural housing through the leading
planning system.

44
Fig.21
Urban system map

45
3.3.3 Strategic objective 3: improvement of infrastructure, transport
and mobility in the region
The development of regional access to the Balkans and Mediterranean metropolises,
by strengthening the role of the port of Durrës and the “Mother Teresa” airport.
Mobility improvement by creating overlapping modes of transportation between
urban, rural, and natural areas of this space in order to improve the connectivity of
businesses and individuals access to the regional services provided. The creation of
healthy movement ways, pollution-free, for people and environment, while offering;
ʧ The creation of Regional Integrated Mobility networks to create entry gates to
regional and national axis for the management of population flows, tourists, and
goods by sea, land, and air.
ʧ The creation of multi-modal mobility systems outside urban centers, supported
with public railway lines for passengers between urban centers and economic areas,
improving the environmental quality and reducing the use of personal vehicles.
ʧ The creation of regional mobility system with low environmental impact,
promoting the improvement of public health, and increasing the possibilities of
connecting the grid of natural tourist areas to urban centers, thanks to the bicycle
movement axes in the regional area.
ʧ The development of underground infrastructure with central management
systems for urban centers and economic areas, as well as meeting the needs of the
population for drinking water, energy, and an efficient telecommunications system.
3.3.4 Strategic objective 3: protection and improvement of the
natural environmental quality
Conservation of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection, where water is
considered an advantage for the development, improvement of the quality, and
safety, as well as access to the Adriatic Sea, the use of technologies with zero
harmful emissions. The integration of natural areas to a natural interconnected
regional system, safeguarding the natural resources as finite assets, including and
integrated water system and the natural system, a system associated with urban
centers, through the creation of connected networks of parks at local, regional, and
national level. The creation of habitats and a sustainable environment with mixed
functions spaces in the service of relaxation and recreation for urban centers.
Protecting surface and underground water system from unsustainable development,
thanks to the establishment of the “buffer” areas and the development of green
corridors in the river networks. The interruption of discharge of untreated urban
and industrial waters in the rivers Ishëm and Erzen, including their sub-sections,
creating the construction of the “river chambers” network as part of the green
infrastructure, for the management of floods due to climate changes.
Creating a management system of regional waste, to reduce the level of environmental
pollution, and increase the efficiency and quality of services in urban centers, due
to the reduction - reuse - recycling, collection and processing of organic waste,
collection, storage, and management of waste in regional landfills. The creation
and application of concepts and methods for the management of spatial planning
besides the adaptive and mitigation policies on climate and climate changes.

46
© rilind hoxha

47

Agjencia Kombëtare e Planifikimit të Territorit
<strong>National</strong> Territorial Planning Agency
Address: Rr. “Muhamet Gjollesha”, Nr. 57
Kutia Postare 1023, Tirane/ Albania
www.planifikimi.gov.al
info@planifikimi.gov.al