Suwon to Make Its Own Urban Master Plans Independently

Seven cities in Gyeonggi Province with populations of 500,000 or more, including Suwon, have been able to independently make decisions on urban management plans, such as establishing district-unit plans and changing land-use zones, since the 28th of last month.

According to the Ministry of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs, a revised edition of the 'National Land Planning and Utilization Act' transferring the authority to decide urban management plans from provincial governors to basic local governments was promulgated and took effect from the 28th of last month. As a result, Suwon is now able to independently establish urban management plans, thereby simplifying administrative procedures.

Urban management plans encompass detailed implementation within the framework of urban master plans, including land-use zone changes, installation of urban planning facilities, and establishment of district-unit plans.

Local governments that have acquired decision authority over urban management plans are seven in total: Suwon, Seongnam, Yongin, Goyang, Bucheon, Ansan, and Anyang.

Meanwhile, a partial amendment to the Urban and Residential Environment Improvement Act passed through the National Assembly on February 26, enabling mayors of major cities with populations of 500,000 or more to directly designate redevelopment zones, which is expected to accelerate urban redevelopment. (Related article: News S March 11 and 18 editions)