Sustainable Urbanity at the Fringe? Principles of Present‐Day Urban Expansions in Germany (2008–2025)

Randi Bornmann, Peter Gotsch and Uwe Altrock
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Randi Bornmann: Chair of Planning Theory and Urban Regeneration, University of Kassel, Germany
Peter Gotsch: Chair of Planning Theory and Urban Regeneration, University of Kassel, Germany
Uwe Altrock: Chair of Planning Theory and Urban Regeneration, University of Kassel, Germany

Urban Planning, 2026, vol. 11

Abstract: In recent years, Germany has experienced a significant number of large urban expansion schemes. These emerge despite strong policies for more inner-city development and against more land consumption. In this light, this article seeks to better understand these schemes. Of special interest are the sustainability ambitions that appear to be inspired by themes such as re-urbanisation, sustainability, and participation. In this light, we characterise the urban design and development principles underlying these projects. Building on previous studies, we analyse a sample of 69 larger projects, examining locations, spatial structures, social services, transport solutions, and planning processes. Our results illuminate the number, characteristics, and locational dynamics of the urban expansion projects in Germany. Overall, the findings reveal how a specific combination of sustainability-oriented and postmodern development and design principles is realised at the urban periphery. These findings provide a basis for examining the effectiveness of implementing contemporary planning and design principles as well as the procedural dynamics involved.

Keywords: housing; postmodern urban design; sustainable urban development; urban design principles; urban expansion (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:cog:urbpla:v11:y:2026:a:12075

DOI: 10.17645/up.12075

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