Visualisation of Gartnerhaven made for the local plan proposal. Image rights: Hvidovre Municipality
A visualisation made in connection with the preparation of the local plan proposal gives an idea of what the future nature and residential area could look like. Please note that this is not a visualisation of the specific project proposal. Visualisation: Hvidovre Municipality

The three legs of the planning process: Project, legislation and policy

Elisabeth Jeppesen, KHR Architecture's urban planning expert, shared her extensive experience of urban planning in over 30 municipalities over 12 years. She emphasised the importance of successful interaction between project, legislation and policy in the planning process. Drawing on her role as project manager for the Gartnerhaven development, she emphasised the complexity of navigating EU directives, the Finger Plan, environmental assessments and the political processes. Project developers are faced with multiple regulatory requirements and major challenges such as climate protection. Interdisciplinary collaboration and timely decisions are therefore crucial for project success.

Morning meeting Planning Act
Warm water pool for therapy, play and training at Bergen hospital

A deeper dive into the complex legislative process

Surveyor Kristian Baastrup from Skel.dk gave participants a deeper insight into the legislative aspects of the planning process, including framework controls and the different planning levels inherent in the Planning Act. He presented the differences between the National Planning Directive, municipal plan and local plan and discussed the importance of integrating information about purposes and legal effects, such as climate adaptations, already in the planning process. The discussion ranged from exemptions, temporary use of areas, easements and co-operation between project developers and surveyors.

Urban planner Elisabeth Jeppesen - responsible for planning and urban development at KHR Architecture
Elisabeth Jeppesen - Head of Planning and Urban Development at KHR Architecture

Multidisciplinary work is the key to success

The conclusion of the morning meeting was clear: Successful urban development and urban planning requires good dialogue between all stakeholders, an understanding of the interdisciplinary disciplines and knowledge of the right legislation, as this saves time and resources. Elisabeth and Kristian also emphasised the importance of early involvement of public and private interests, as this can ensure greater support for the project, minimise conflict and gain public acceptance and recognition.

If you are interested in learning more about our urban planning services or need help with a specific project, please contact Elisabeth Jeppesen.