Stockholm - SLL Tillväxt, miljö och regionplanering (TMR ...

SummaryPart 1: The Underlying AssumptionsRegional Planning in the SwedishPlanning SystemRegional planning in the Stockholm Region is based onthe rules for regional planning bodies and regionalplanning laid down by the Planning and Building Act(PBL). However, there are other legislative sectors whichare involved, the Environmental Code in particular.The physical planning provided for by law is supplementedby somewhat less regulated regional developmentplanning, not least following Sweden’s EU accession.All planning in this field is currently undergoingmajor developmental changes, and even the existingrules for physical planning are in a state of change.Seen against an international perspective, Swedishmunicipalities hold a uniquely strong position in theplanning system. The municipalities have a planningmonopoly and the planning system has been shapedprimarily for the local government level. According tothe PBL, all municipalities must have a valid comprehensiveplan, covering the entire surface area of themunicipality. The detailed plan (development plan)is the legally binding planning instrument, which mustbe in place prior to any development to ensure properexamination of suitable land use.Issues concerning land use and water zones of concernto more than one municipality are to be investigatedjointly or, if the comprehensive planning of severalmunicipalities needs to be co-ordinated, the stateshould set up a regional planning body. The StockholmCounty Council is a regional planning body in accordancewith special legislation. In contrast to the comprehensiveplan, establishing a regional plan is not obligatory.The content of a regional plan is not provided forby law; instead the regional planning body itself candecide which issues are to be dealt with. The form of theregional plan, on the other hand, is provided for by law.