Spatial development policies are intended to ensure the sustainable balanced development of
the European territory which respects its diversity. Although it does not justify further
Community responsibilities as regards spatial planning, the European Spatial Development
Perspective (ESDP) is a framework for policy guidance to improve cooperation among
Community sectoral policies which have a significant impact in spatial terms. It was drawn up
because it was found that the work of the Member States complemented each other best if
directed towards common objectives for spatial development.
The aim of the study is to review the primary mainstreams of spatial development policies
from the aspect how and with what instrument these are intended to serve the main objectives
of the EU’s regional and territorial development
