The reform passed because Sweden recognized that it would be a more efficient way to provide public services and carry out effective planning by consolidating the smaller communities around the existing growth centers. Swedish Reform of Community Planning and Protection of Natural Resources. In 1987, the laws regulating community planning and the protection of natural resources were consolidated into two major laws 1987 Planning and Building Act and the Act on the Management of Natural Resources. Limited space prohibits a full discussion of these two acts. However, the following are some of the major provisions of the Planning and Building Act.
Community planning is carried out at two levels .
One is the comprehensive plan, which consists of major goals and policies and designates general land uses for the whole community. In effect, it established a framework for community development. However, it is not binding on either the public or private sectors. Comprehensive plans are mandated for all communities and must be updated every four years. It is somewhat similar to our proposed subdivision proposals, and contains similar requirements as subdivision regulations.