According to a study published by the World Bank in collaboration with the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Administration (MDRAP), the new Zonal Urban Plans (PUZ) developed in Romania’s major cities during 2024–2025 place greater emphasis on green spaces, urban mobility efficiency, and the functional reconversion of abandoned industrial areas.

Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timișoara are among the cities that have revised their PUZ methodologies to integrate sustainable components: a minimum of 25% green space in new developments, continuous pedestrian routes and bicycle lanes, as well as the promotion of mixed-use functions (residential + services).

Urban architects and planning experts highlight a clear shift from extensive urban development toward smart densification and the reuse of existing infrastructure. At the same time, County Councils are gaining new responsibilities in validating intercommunal PUZs, in line with the amendments to Law 350/2001 revised in 2023.

These directions aim to align Romania with the objectives of the European Green Deal, particularly regarding the climate neutrality of urban areas by 2050.

(Photo: Freepik)