The Changing Scope of Regional Planning: From Spatial to ‘Growth-Oriented’ Planning in Denmark

Abstract

Regional planning in Denmark was initially established as a spatial framework to reduce socio-economic disparities and promote balanced development through successive generations of legally binding regional plans. Its socio-spatial foundations provided a comprehensive structure for spatial development. However, following a recent structural reform and amendments to the Danish Planning Act, the domain has undergone radical transformation. The spatial rationale traditionally underlying regional planning has been replaced by a space-less orientation focused primarily on facilitating economic growth. Through an in-depth analysis of the history and evolution of Danish regional planning, the paper identifies key factors driving this transformation. It concludes by reflecting on the theoretical and practical implications of shifting conceptions and institutional capacities within regional planning in Denmark.