The special development plan: what exactly is it?

You have probably already heard of the special development plan without really knowing what it is or understanding how it works.

Let us start at the beginning: what is the special development plan (PAP)?

The special development plan or PAP

A special development plan is linked to a general development plan (PAG). It is the instrument that implements and clarifies the PAG. The PAP covers a defined part of the municipality. It applies to areas that are urbanised or intended for urban development. 

The PAP brings together the various urban-planning requirements and rules that must be observed. For example, the PAP contains all the information regarding the maximum permitted height. It also sets out how the development must be positioned and integrated into its surroundings.   

Please note that there are two different types of PAP.

The existing neighbourhood PAP (PAP QE)

This is the development plan for projects located in existing neighbourhoods. Existing neighbourhoods are defined as highly urbanised areas with public infrastructure (water drainage, gas, pavements, etc.). In these areas, projects notably involve the redevelopment or reconstruction of existing buildings. It explains the various steps to be taken and aspects to be emphasised to ensure that the project fits into the neighbourhood. The aim is to preserve the character of the neighbourhood. It is also important to emphasise that the PAP QE is always drawn up by the municipalities themselves, unlike the PAP NQ.

The new neighbourhood PAP (PAP NQ)

This is the development plan for areas intended for urban development, namely undeveloped plots of land. In other words, it clearly sets out the development project for the area, including the various requirements that must be observed, while also identifying the different public infrastructure (pavements, roads, etc.) that will be required. However, unlike the PAP QE, this plan is initiated by private investors rather than the municipality.

It is therefore the PAP that determines the layout of our neighbourhoods.