Making Better Cities Together

Municipal Spatial Planning Support Programme (MuSPP)

Issue No. 05/02 • February 2008

Editorial

Let’s talk about the spatial status of Kosovo!

With political decisions taken about the Send us your ideas how to make future of Kosovo, it’s time to deal more seriously with the physical and social Kosovo and its cities a better place status of this part of the Balkans. “More to live, to work, to move about and seriously” means that sustainable de- velopment should be on everyone’s lips to express oneself and in everyone’s minds. Kosovo needs development and it has to be sustain- able in terms of economic growth, social welfare and well-being, and last but not [email protected] least environmentally. And to be clear, this is the opposite way of the current applied it to ourselves too. The focus international experience and promote trend; in other words, we have to break was-and still is-mainly on drafting the the role of public transport in sustain- the trend of the unsustainable develop- Municipal and Urban Development able urban development in Kosovo. Also ment of the past decades and particu- plans–but we also launched new tools the Kosovo-wide Workshop on Infor- larly the years after the conflict. like participatory visioning and “new” mal Settlements showed the readi- issues like sustainable urban mobility ness of many stakeholders, MESP, OSCE, The way we organise the limited space and “place-making”. We also supported Association of Kosovo Municipalities and of Kosovo–what we call spatial plan- firmly an innovative approach towards UN-HABITAT, for a multidisciplinary and ning–is crucial in this aim; the way we the challenge of Informal Settlements inclusive approach, marked by “heart” organise and manage growing cities in in Kosovo, and last but not least we to these settlements as living and liv- Kosovo–what we call urban planning is launched seven small urban projects to able communities. The large number of equally important, as more and more demonstrate urban planning in practice. participants in these events proves how people tend to live in cities and Pris- It’s too early for an evaluation, but there important these issues are for Kosovo’s tina remains the magnet for many. UN- have been indications from our Swedish present day and its future. HABITAT supports this great challenge sponsor, Sida, of its intention to provide You will also read about another Tri-Par- of sustainable spatial and urban further support to this innovative plan- tite Review meeting. Despite the overall development in Kosovo. But positive ning approach and we are looking for- satisfaction of the partners and donor changes can only be achieved if the cen- ward to it. with the progress made so far, there is tral and local level stakeholders of Koso- still work to be done, particularly with vo are committed and dedicated to this In this edition the focus is on public reference to Municipal and Urban De- goal. This also requires strong alliances space and urban design, with prac- velopment Plans. Therefore we need and partnerships among public authori- tices in Mitrovica (south and north), full commitment of our local partners to ties, the private sector, civil society and Gjakova/Djakovica and Ferizaj/Uros- implement the joint road maps towards international community. evac. Often those practices are rooted in the municipal approval of those crucial the field of transport and mobility, and planning documents. We count on a con- Municipal Spatial Planning Support Pro- it shows that urban design of public tinuous effort to have most plans ready gramme (MuSPP), which supports spa- spaces can bridge the “different worlds” by the end of MuSPP1 (end of April), so tial planning in the 6 secondary cities in of spatial planning and transport. Bridg- that we can start all together the next Kosovo, can be considered as a “warm- ing these worlds was also the aim of stage of the marathon of implementa- ing up” for the marathon of sustainable the first Conference on Transport and tion, monitoring, evaluation, revision, urban development. With the support Spatial Planning in Kosovo, jointly orga- project development, …in short the of Sida, UN-HABITAT introduced a chal- nized by the Ministry of Transport and “never ending planning cycle” with tan- lenging capacity building and strength- Post-Telecommunication and the Minis- gible results for citizens and with their ening programme with expert teams try of Environment and Spatial Planning, participation. based in the municipalities. We promot- with support of MuSPP. The Conference Frank D’hondt ed a “learning-by-doing-approach” and aimed to bring together Kosovar and Spatial Planning Coordinator MuSPP1  MuSPP NEWSLETTER 5/02 • February 2008

IN FOCUS

The need for Urban Design in Kosovo

The Leipzig Charter on Sustainable Euro- perspective from which many of our day big decisions, to the people passing pean cities (May 2007), considers “creat- to day experiences are gained. through a street whose smile or laugh- ing and ensuring high quality spaces…to ter momentarily lights up a space, or an be of crucial importance for strengthening Urban Design seeks to enable people to individual who drops litter or parks on a the competitiveness of European cities”. get more from their surroundings. footpath. Getting people to value shared Changing this unhealthy relationship re space, to recognise its contribution to This article considers this statement from quires intervening in the built environment peoples lives and to provide the demo the perspective of Kosovo, why it is just to reconcile competing demands and al- cratic mandate for cities to make and pay as valid here as elsewhere in Europe and low people to forge new links with each for improvements is essential. This may what it means. Recent years have wit- other and with their surroundings, while seem like a big ask but visionary leader- nessed a rapid growth in the population holding the negative influences of social ship and coordinated programs of infor- of Kosovo’s towns and cities, most no- exclusion, economic fragility and physical mation, education and public works have tably Pristina which has doubled in size blight at bay. changed the culture of cities (and found since the end of the conflict. This physi- economic benefits) in places as diverse cal change has been paralleled by social Urban design seeks to create places with as Bogota in Colombia, Copenhagen in upheaval as traditional bonds of clan and meaning for the people that occupy them Denmark, Melbourne in Australia and Ti- family are eroded with urbanisation and to provide people with opportunities to rana in Albania. Secondly, and very much infrastructure (roads, open space and meet their needs. However, defining peo- connected to the first point, is the devel- schools as well as water, sewers and elec- ple’s needs is not always easy. As individ- opment of a uniquely Kosovan sense of tricity etc) has struggled to cope with the uals and as a community people’s needs urban design. At the end of the day, im- demands of more people with increasing will vary significantly. They are likely to porting overseas urban designers is not expectations. These demands and ex- change over time and between people. sustainable, no matter how good the de- pectations are fuelling the competition What someone needs at any given time signers. for city space, with a desire to facilitate will be influenced by their gender, age, Beyond some fundamental ground rules personal mobility being prominent on the upbringing, experience, values, the time that relate to accessibility, comfort and agenda of most decision makers. Perhaps of day (they might be tired or hungry, safety, what is ‘good’ is to a large extent one of the principal expressions of this is etc). culturally specific, and the best people to the roads of Pristina and other cities in Designing places that are relevant to ev- understand that sense of place are the Kosovo which are clogged with traffic that eryone means designing places that can people for whom that place is their day to occupies nearly all the space from building be used in many different ways by many day experience. wall to building wall. With discontinuous people. Urban space is too precious to footpaths that are pot-holed, blocked by commit to a single use. In urban design, If these changes are made, the cities parked vehicles and with little landscaping as in nature, a monoculture is best avoid- and towns of Kosovo can become places they discourage any use other than ve- ed. Good design does not cost significant- within which the newly urbanised people hicles moving through them. ly more, nor take longer to complete than will have a better chance of thriving and poor design . The desirability of achieving reaching their potential. It is an essential This is a major issue when you consider these goals for Kosovo is self-evident, but part of making the most of Kosovo’s fin- that streets and open spaces typically the extent to which they can be achieved est asset: its people and helping them make up around 20% of most cities. They depends on two key factors: compete on an equal footing with other are the principal forum for social interac- Perhaps the most important is the ability European centres. tion, they connect the places we have to to create a culture of urban design. We all Jenny Donovan, get to in order to meet our needs (school, influence the quality of our surroundings, Expert in Urban and Public Place work, healthcare, shops, etc) and are the from the mayors and planners who make Design UN-HABITAT-MuSPP Kosovo MuSPP NEWSLETTER 5/ 02 • February 2008 

MUNICIPAL Corner Towards urban design context

The work of the Mobility and Transport The ideas of creating a landscaped plaza in Working group in Mitrovica municipality has the center of the triangle surrounded with been strongly focused on developing a new seating areas in a sheltered landscape with project – the extension of the initial pro- lot of greenery, linked with continuous and posal for demo project, at the intersection coherent pedestrian routes and safe cross- of the South entrance to the city. ings, providing safe access to the minibus station from the plaza and to the area of the The location of the triangle/tip of the Sola- park in the future, are being developed by na Park, one of the main entry/exit points to the municipal planners in the main design the city centre, is also a connection of the of the project. city with the Solana Park and an important public space of this area. Particular attention was given to the safety A creative process of rehabilitation of this of the pedestrians, by using different struc- location, seen as a part of the Solana Park tural elements that prevent misuse of the in the future, would have a significant -im pedestrian areas, as well as future links with pact in creating a unique place – part of the Solana park. Spatial layout is one of the most coherent public realm, aiming at the recre- persistent things about place and can have ation of qualitative urban areas and a more a long-term implication, therefore carefully inclusive environment. planned and designed roads, pedestrian routes and public spaces become an imper- In this regard the recommendations made ative not only because they determine the by the MuSPP/UN–HABITAT expert in urban way people move through their cities, but design were highly embraced by the group. also how they experience their city.

Mobility and design Solving traffic and urban problems in the north part of Mitrovica In the north part of Mitrovica, traffic, • A proposal for necessary construction and parked cars and pedestrians struggle over connection of the street network would On October 25th 2007, the project proposal of the limited amount of public space in the help to achieve more balanced traffic and a bigger programme for solution of traffic and city. A ‘Mobility and Transport’ working could introduce one way movements in or- urban problems was presented in Mitrovica group, made up of local and international der to get new parking places (northern part). On this occasion, Dr Milomir professionals from UNMIK Administration, • Possibilities and conditions for installation Veselinovic, transport expert from the University Kosovo Police Service, UN Civilian Police of funicular, cableway or lift for transporta- of Novi Sad, presented the proposal which aims and MuSPP/UN-HABITAT team as well tion of citizens to the church, in order to to improve the quality of life in the city through as local civil society representatives, has eliminate car traffic except with special the improvement of mobility. Dr Veselinovic been working towards improving mobility, permission stated that the next step is the configuration alleviating this struggle for space in order • Public transportation should completely of the proposal presented into a document and to improve the quality of life in the city. be privatised, but its organization and informing relevant institutions working on this work regime must be determined by the topic as well as all political structures that are The working group, with support from local authorities relevant for the implementation of this project. MuSPP/UN-HABITAT, undertook to contract This work has been presented and dis- The biggest contribution of this proposal, and a transport expert from the University of cussed in a public forum and will be fi- the ambition we need to follow, is that the traffic Novi Sad to assist with the formulation of nalised shortly, with a view to implement- will operate where it naturally should operate. project proposals that would be a starting ing mobility improvements starting by next We need the connection of streets for that, point to improving mobility and transport in year. and that comes practically step by step. These the north part of Mitrovica. These propos- are very small investments and individu- als considered the option of a new railway ally there are lots of those. We can apply a station, possibilities for public transport certain regime of a disciplined and concrete provision and urban design issues in the behaviour of people in the main streets in allocation of public space in neighbour- terms of traffic lights and pedestrian, biking hoods. or disabled movement”, said Dr. Veselinovic. Recommendations of the study included: He also added that the initiative means in- • The optimal location of the new train sta- volvement of all structures in resolving the tion is at the extension of John Kennedy traffic functioning problem and he was also Street very optimistic about the implementation. • A bike path should be defined to and from Source: Kontakt Plus Radio, 25/10/07 the railway station  MuSPP NEWSLETTER 5/02 • February 2008

A Concept Design for the Central Park-Demo Project in Gjako- va/Djakovica

A concept design has been prepared by MuSPP/UN-HABITAT’s expert in urban design for upgrading the Cen- tral City Park of Gjakova/Djakovica. The purpose of this concept design is to provoke a discussion about the processes and products of equita- ble urban design. The municipality of Gjakova/Djakovica submitted this project as a demo-project proposal to MuSPP/UN-HABITAT. This concept design proposal is part of a series of activities of MuSPP to demonstrate a participatory the planning process.

The initial proposal lacked citizens’ participation in the planning and de- sign process which is an important criterion for a successful demo proj- ect. That’s why the MuSPP team of Gjakova/Djakovica organized an event on the World Habitat Day 2007, called ‘walkabout in the city park’ in collabo- ration with the representatives of local authorities and the Informal Council of Civil Society Organizations. A range of citizen representatives such as school students, youth, women and elderly participated in that event and gave comments on how this green area contributes to the city’s quality of life. The MuSPP expert’s concept de- sign interprets the findings of this exercise and outlines the process by which the plan was generated.

Both elements (the process and the product) are important but the use- fulness of this concept lies in docu- menting the way the two are con- nected, providing an example about how an inclusive, equitable urban design process can be undertaken.

The process has four components: • Understanding the site as both a collaboratively, but time constraints that can help provide and enhance physical and a social composition did not allow this. As a result, the an image for not just the park but • Preparing a design agenda, outlining design concept is put forward as an for the entire city, acknowledging the sig- suggestions about what the priorities example of what could be achieved nificance of the location (see illustration) . of the study should be and as some ideas for stakeholder con- • Landscape enhancements to re- • A possible design solution, that ad- sideration, rather than as completely tain and enhance the park’s character dresses those priorities resolved proposals. The next stage in • New seating, lighting and im- • Design Rationale that explores in a the process is to confirm, amend or provements to play equipment little more detail how those objectives abandon the concepts and assump- • New paths to respond to existing ‘de- can be met by this concept. tions explored in the concept design. sire lines’ and improve access within the Key suggestions include: park and to the surrounding city centre . Normally, the design generation and • A new café and sanitary facility block i testing with the community are done ncorporated into an iconic structure MuSPP NEWSLETTER 5/ 02 • February 2008 

Demo-Project in Ferizaj/ Urosevac

INTERNATIONAL SPATIAL DESIGN COMPETITION Mobility Centre Project

As the result of several activities of the from the Private Transport Association and Urosevac in a sustainable way. It will also mobility working group addressing mo- civil society, MuSPP/UN-HABITAT and the help to achieve a functional conjunction bility and transport issues and using the municipality, has been set up. This group of the city aiming at regenerating the city lessons learnt from the study visit in will decide the final result of the competi- centre as well as creating the new identity Lund,Sweden, the municipality of Ferizaj/ tion with the advice of a Technical Jury. that Ferizaj/Urosevac will gain thanks to Urosevac decided to work on the concept the existence of the railway. of a Mobility Centre which integrates the This project is an achievement while inte- train and the bus station. grating different planning levels and deci- The advertisement of the international sion-making, different sectors, civil society competition for the idea project on Mobil- With further advancement and accepted and it encourages public-private partner- ity Centre in Ferizaj/Urosevac aims at col- by the Municipal Assembly, this concept ship in drafting the project proposal. The lecting the best ideas for the implementa- was chosen as a demo-project for an In- whole commitment to this process, the tion of the concept. ternational Design Competition on the principles and specific factors in the con- project idea of a Mobility Centre. This text of the future development of the city The advertisement is opened from 17 demo-project is co-financed by the mu- are compiled in the “Urban Charter of Fer- November 2007 in more than 15 interna- nicipality of Ferizaj/Urosevac and MuSPP/ izaj/Urosevac City” that at the same time tional websites and the deadline for the UN-HABITAT. is a part of the techical documentation of submission is 17 March 2008. the competition. A Selection Committee, composed of by For more information visit our website: relevant representatives from Kosovo Rail- The concept of the Mobility Centre, www.unhabitat-kosovo.org and www. way, Ministry of Environment and Spatial through the integration of the train and ferizaj-komuna.org. Planning (MESP), Ministry of Transport bus station, seeks to promote a multi- and Post-telecommunication (MTPT), the modal transport system and the improve- Businness Community, representatives ment of the functional transport in Ferizaj/  MuSPP NEWSLETTER 5/02 • February 2008

Urban Planning best practices on “Creating Harmonious Cities” “Creating harmonious cities” was the motto nomic growth, address urban poverty and of the Expert Group Meeting (EGM), held reduce the ecological footprint of the city. in Rome on 29 and 30 November 2007. The aim was to try to establish the most Pejë/Pec was one of selected cities after a effective levers of action for achieving this. formal application procedure approval con- Each city presentation was ex- ducted by the organisers of the conference. pected to contribute in terms of: Twelve cities were represented at EGM. The outcome of this meeting was a preliminary • Innovations in urban planning practice draft of recommendations that should final- identified ly be approved during World Urban Forum • Analysis and comparison of the main IV in Nanjing, China. Agron Sallova (Urban problems in generating and implementing cussions took place. Especially important Planning Advisor UN-HABITAT/MuSPP) and sustainable urban plans. for the EGM was information on innovative Modest Gashi (Urban Planner from Pejë/Pec • Identification of alternative planning aspects of the planning process, tools ap- Municipality) attended the EGM in Rome. solutions in participant cities. plied and clear frameworks for plan imple- • Future collaboration prospects. mentation. Relevant for Kosovo context is The purpose of the Conference was to ex- • Selection of the most promising exam- the possibility of more active involvement change methodologies and experiences ples of planning for harmonious cities. of Pejë/Pec city and MuSPP/UN-HABI- of urban planning as a tool that can cre- TAT on WUF IV in Nanjing/China 2008. ate sustainable urbanisation, in other The presentation of Pejë/Pec city left a words “harmonious cities”. Harmonious good impression on all participants, and It is expected that relevant information will cities will simultaneously generate eco- as a follow up to that many bilateral dis be posted soon on UN-HABITAT’s web site.

MUNICIPALITY OF GJILAN/GNJILANE CLOSE TO COMPLETION OF MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN

On 26 November 2007, the municipality of between Gjilan/Gnjilane-Bujanoc (Serbia)- Gjilan/Gnjilane launched the public review Kumanovo (Macedonia). for the Municipal Development Plan (MDP). The vision declaration derived from the plan is: Preparation of this plan included a wide By using the central position between the range of relevant stakeholders: the plan- two triangles, Gjilan/Gnjilane will be a mod- ning team from the directorate of Urbanism, Reconstruction and Environment and other ern bridge, offering qualitative services in a directorates, civil society representatives, sustainable environment, dynamic educa- media, citizens and the business community. tion with the modern technology supporting economic growth, with the emphasis on The process of drafting the Plan was agriculture development and in a function supported by MuSPP/UN-HABITAT and to better urban and rural living conditions in in some phases also by the USAID proj- a full partnership; a regional and university ect-Initiative for Local Governance (LGI). centre while strengthening its identity and cultural and human values. The opening event of the public review, which lasts until 25 January 2008, gath- We, as the stakeholders involved in the ered a considerable number of interested planning process, hope that the newly people in the Municipal Assembly Hall. Some citizens took opportunity of the elected Municipal Assembly will accept the final plan proposal after the public review short time available for questions, sug- and will find the ways of public and private gestions and proposals during the event. sector cooperation and partnership to im- It is expected that on following days plement the plan. citizens will take a closer look at the proposed plan and use the possibility to know more on what is proposed and pro- Naim SHAQIRI, Coordinator vide their comments and suggestions. On behalf of NGO “Peace with Nature”

In the proposed plan Gjilan/Gnjilane is seen as the meeting point between the two triangles: Pristina-Ferizaj/Urosevac- Gjilan/Gnjilane and the cross-border region MuSPP NEWSLETTER 5/ 02 • February 2008 

Consultant brief for outsourcing the drafting of MDP Municipality of Prizren has decided to out- The core group then had I severalmpressions meet- development from for the Municipality the work of Prizren,- source the drafting of the Municipal De- ings with the procurement depart- incorporating all the elements of sustainabil- velopment Plan (MDP). As a result of that ment in order to negotiate and fi- ity i.e. innovative transport solutions, devel- decision, the MuSPP team of UN-HABITAT nalise the tender process in general. opment patterns, construction practice and in Prizren and the Municipal Planning Team As a result of the achieved consensus, the long-term urban and rural management etc. (MPT) established a core group from the Municipality of Prizren opened the tender for wider MPT to develop a comprehensive drafting the MDP in the daily newspapers. The developed strategy and policies consultant’s brief for drafting the MDP. The Consultant Brief clearly states that the should add significant value to quality of In the process of discussions the core successful contractor is expected to devel- life for existing and new inhabitants, busi- group developed a Consultant Brief. op a strategy and policies for growth and nesses and visitors to the Municipality.

Progress on Demo Project Creating a safer school environment The Municipality of Prizren has opened school environment by reconstructing a the project to the immediate community the tender for the Demo project in the na- school wall of the school “Lidhja e Priz- around the school and the town as a tional newspapers on 14 November 2007. renit” in Prizren, which is currently un- whole. safe for pupils as well as pedestrians. Opening of the bids took place in the The representatives of this local NGO Municipality of Prizren on 10 Deecem- In taking the project forward, the Prizren expressed their willingness to engage in ber 2007 in the presence of the bid- MuSPP team had several meetings with a developing ideas that would be beneficial ders and MuSPP/UN-HABITAT. local youth NGO “Fisnikët” and have began to all concerned. The Demo project aims to create a safer exploring the value added benefits of

UN-HABITAT CORNER

World town planning day

08/11/2007, Edinburgh, Scotland concurring with that expressed recently Too often, even in rich countries, the ap- The way that cities are growing today is by UN-HABITAT’s Executive Director, Mrs. proach of governments to urban develop- not sustainable; the Commonwealth As- Anna Tibaijuka. “The problems are particu- ment is one of curative medicine: clear- sociation of Planners said in a statement larly acute in small island developing states ance, infrastructure after the development calling on governments to “rethink” before where the growing threats from rising sea has happened, too little too late in environ- it is too late. levels and extreme weather conditions are mental protection. not matched by growing capacity to plan Planning means preventative medicine; it’s “We have 10, maybe 15 years, to get on and manage settlements in sustainable and about acting now so that our cities and ru- to a new track. equitable ways. ral areas are not allowed to degrade to the After that the slum problem, environmental Urban growth is going to be huge in this extent that recovery becomes a prohibitive damage and urban insecurity will become generation. cost. so entrenched that they will dominate There are encouraging signs that some international relations for the rest of the It will create great wealth that can lift peo- governments within the Commonwealth century” said the association’s president, ple out of poverty. are realising that they need to re-invent Ms. Christine Platt, a planner who works in However, we have to get the cities right, planning. South Africa. and that needs smart planning”, said Ms. Platt, who recently visited India to see how The Commonwealth Association of Planners In a statement marking World Town Plan- they are handling the urban consequences is made up from the professional planning ning Day, she said some 327 million people of an economic boom. We need a quantum institutes in over 25 Commonwealth coun- in Commonwealth countries currently live leap in management capacity: more trained tries. For several years, the Commonwealth in slums, their numbers increasing daily. people with better skills and planning leg- Local Government Forum, with some 200 Their life expectancy is dramatically less islation that is fit for purpose in today’s members in over 40 Commonwealth coun- than their compatriots who live in better world. tries, has been collaborating closely with conditions. UN-HABITAT in many countries around the “Because the poor live in the most hazard- This is something that we are working on, world. ous locations they are disproportionately together with our member institutes, our Source: www.unhabitat.org vulnerable to the local impacts of climate Commonwealth partners and also change” Ms. Platt said in a view widely UN-HABITAT.  MuSPP NEWSLETTER 5/02 • February 2008

MuSP Programme gets donor support for 2nd phase

Sida, UN-HABITAT and the Ministry of En- vironment and Spatial Planning (MESP) met again on November 6-8, 2007 to dis- cuss the progress of MuSP Programme and make plans for the future. The origi- nal closing date of the programme was extended to April, 2008 which will allow for the completion of the current activi- ties and the development of a final pro- funding by MuSPP relate to the improve- their implementation results from the mu posal for the 2nd phase of the Programme. ment of public spaces, increased safety of nicipal and urban development planning school environments and more efficient process and that their spatial impact is in The discussions concentrated on the ad- mobility in urban areas. The World Habi- line with the development agenda of the vancement of the municipal and urban de- tat Day, traditionally marked on October 1, municipality. In practical terms it means velopment plans, demonstration projects, gave another opportunity to promote public optimisation of land use and land manage- co-operation with civil society organisations participation and engage citizens in the dis- ment policies, protection of the natural en- and the key issues which should be ad- cussions on the implementation of projects vironment, improvement of infrastructure dressed in the 2nd phase of the programme. as part of the urban development process. and the construction of housing in areas • Due to awareness raising campaigns and best suited for such investments. A need The review of the highlights of the workshops on Informal Settlements for stronger inter-municipal co-operation six-month period between April partner municipalities started to identify has also been stressed in relation to the and September 2007 included: such settlements and initiated planning regional co-operation zones identified • The approval of the MDP/UDP for actions. Co-operation with the MESP and in the Kosovo Spatial Plan. This would allow Peja/Pec by the Municipal Assembly and the joint Informal Settlements working the inclusion of a few smaller municipalities successive work for the development of group continued throughout this period in the Programme. Informal settlements the implementation framework. The Pro- and preparations for a Kosovo-wide confer- and ways of addressing this issue at the cess of developing the Municipal and Ur- ence/workshop were well advanced during central local and community level would ban plan was selected as a case study for the TPR meeting. An in-depth analysis of be another area of interest of MuSPP 2. the Expert Meeting on Urban Planning in the existing legislation as well as social and Rome organised by the UN-HABITAT’s Best planning context was completed just before The focus on vulnerable groups and re- Practices office. Other municipalities are the TPR in the preparation of the grounds sponsiveness to the needs of men and in the final stage of drafting these plans for the development of Kosovo-wide women both in terms of their participation and the public review process in Gjako- strategy on IFS to be prepared by MESP. in the decision making processes and ex- va/Djakovica and Gjilan/Gnjilane was al- pected benefits from the planning initia- ready under way during the TPR meeting. • The programme worked intensively tives and capital projects will be an impor- with the Ministry and some municipali- tant element of the next phase of MUSPP. • Three more visioning workshops ties, particularly Prizren, on the issues of were held during this period which al- special protective zones, as defined in The TPR meeting also gave the opportu- lowed completing the process in all part- the Ahtisaari proposal. The Programme nity to the MuSPP staff to hear more from ner municipalities. Planners and civil soci- also introduced the concept of the Ur- Sida representatives from the Stockholm ety representatives active in the Informal ban Governance Index as a tool to anal- Office and Kosovo about their impressions Councils of Civil Society Organisations from yse various aspects of governance. The from the review of the MuSPP 1 activities Gjakova/Djakovica, Peja/Pec and Prizren Municipality of Gjakova/Djakovica set up and plans for the future, as well as to learn worked together during these intensive 5- a multi-stakeholder group for this pur- about most recent initiatives of UN-HABI- day events to develop a common vision for pose and started to work on its report. TAT Head Quarters in Nairobi, such as a their cities. In a number of municipalities campaign on sustainable urbanisation un- these workshops were followed up by a Part of the TPR meeting was focussed on der development now, preparations for the formal hand-over of the vision to the lo- more detailed discussion on the proposed World Urban Forum to be held in Nanjing, cal authorities for the formal inclusion in continuation of MuSPP as its 2nd phase. on 13-17 October,2008, under the motto of the planning documents. These events Consultations with MESP, the Association Harmonious Urbanisation, where Peja/Pec got a broad coverage in the local media, of Kosovo Municipalities (AKM) and local case is expected to be presented in one of whose representatives have also been government representatives confirmed the Forum’s sessions. Participants in the included in the vision drafting process. the need for further professional sup- TPR visited the Kolonia Informal Settlement port both to municipalities and the central in Gjakova/Djakovica and also met with the • Seven demonstration projects were level in order to consolidate the planning representatives of Junik pilot municipal unit successfully launched and they mark practice. With the continued pressure for and representatives of Culture Heritage an important step in the planning process. capital investments in response to key lo- without Borders (CHwB) to discuss the out- The project proposals submitted for co- cal priorities, it is crucial to ensure that comes from the Junik visioning workshop. MuSPP NEWSLETTER 5/ 02 • February 2008 

Networking Informal Settlements – Living Communities

Informal Settlements are part of urban re- ality not only in the Balkans but in many countries all over the world, with as many as up to 70 per cent of inhabitants of cities in the rapidly developing world living with- out security of tenure, access to services or full participation in democratic governance structures. As such they are often pockets of poverty, social and economic exclusion and discrimination.

Looking for effective ways to deal with Infor- mal Settlements (IFS) in Kosovo have been a subject of continued concern of Kosovo central and local government institutions, donors, NGOs and the international com- munity. MuSPP, in close co-operation with owns and cities with the goal of provid- ings co-organised by the Stability Pact for the Ministry of Environment and Spatial ing adequate shelter for all. People in IFS South Eastern Europe and UN-HABITAT Planning and OSCE, organised a workshop have rights but also responsibilities. They and for the last two years hosted by the on IFS on 11-12, December 2007. Some have rights to services, infrastructure and signatories to the Declaration. The 5th 170 central and local level professionals, the right to contribute to spatial planning Regional Meeting was held in Podgorica, experts and representatives of NGOs took practices. They also have the responsibil- Montenegro, on 21-22 October 2007. The part in the workshop which served as a ity to pay taxes, bills and respect planning meetings which are part of the Regional forum for international, regional and local regulations. Capacity Strengthening Programme serve experience sharing. as a learning and experience sharing forum Municipalities are currently in the process of for participating countries. Many of them One of the conclusions from earlier meet- drafting their municipal and urban develop- are in the process of preparing legislation ings was the need to differentiate and ment plans and this process offers a unique and policies to deal with IFS and related is- separate the issue of IFS inhabited by opportunity to include the IFS in these plans sues such as legalisation of illegal buildings vulnerable groups and that of illegal build- and provide for their future development and social housing. ings, often of a relatively good standard options. The current assessment speaks of Learning from others has proven to be a but build without permits. Therefore, the some 70 such settlements across Kosovo, way for developing general concepts and agenda of the workshop provided for both but municipalities are not always ready and ideas, but which need to be adjusted to of these topics. Sessions of the workshop properly technically equipped to develop specific country conditions: e.g. Albania dealt with the legal implications of informal improvement plans for such areas. has decided to go for a general amnesty settlements, experiences of the efforts to of illegal buildings and only later will look regularise IFS in Peja/Pec, a review of the The Ministry has initiated work on a Kosovo at the issues of urban planning, for Croatia situation of Roma communities in Koso- strategy on IFS, specified as part of the the major issue is the protection of coastal vo, the current state of affairs as regards EPAP (European Partnership Action Plan), zones from illegal constructions, for Serbia IFS world-wide and efforts undertaken in which is intended to give the direction to the focus in on social housing, Macedo- Brcko, Bosnia and Herzegovina, to resolve new initiatives of the government in this nia is working on the legalisation process the issue of illegal constructions. (Link to field. One of the important issues is the and the issues of procedures and costs materials on IFS available at http://www. creation of a coherent legal framework to of legalisation in reference to vulnerable ks-gov.net/mmph). address the security of tenure, land man- groups are under review, Kosovo initiated agement, social housing as well as well-de- the process of developing strategy a on IFS In their opening remarks, the heads of signed policies of integrating inhabitants of and has draft laws on treatment of illegal the partner organisations stressed the IFS, particularly the vulnerable groups, in buildings and social housing. There is no importance of a comprehensive approach the social and economic development ac- one-good-for-all way to solve this issue but to IFS which can only be solved through tions in Kosovo. Although a lot was said the countries of the region are determined concerted and committed efforts of central about the IFS of ethnic minorities, particu- to work for progress and keep the date of and local level authorities, professionals larly Roma, Ashkali and Egyptyan commu- 2015 as the deadline for solving the Infor- and communities themselves, with support nities’, one must remember that vulnerable mal Settlements issue. Progress on these of donors and international organisations. groups also include elderly, women-headed initiatives will be presented in the next One of the ways of preventing IFS is to cre- households, the disabled and the poor, ir- meeting. At the end of 2007, the Stabil- ate conditions for sustainable urbanisation. respective of their ethnic origin. ity Pact completed its mission and the re- UN-HABITAT has a mandate to promote so- Ways of resolving IFS issues have been sponsibility for the continuation of the Pro- cially and environmentally sustainable t subject to Vienna Declaration Review Meet gramme was vested with UN-HABITAT. 10 MuSPP NEWSLETTER 5/02 • February 2008 First Conference on Transport and Spatial Planning in Kosovo Public transport organisation, policy and planning Transport and spatial planning are inti- mately linked, like two sides of a coin. Al- though transport and planning experts of- ten have different priorities, concepts and tools, they share the responsibility for build- ing a system, where functions are acces- sible, transport is efficient and goods and people are mobile as to ensure a striving and sustainable social and economic life.

In this perspective, the Ministry of Trans- port, Post and Telecommunications (MTPT), the Ministry of Environment and Spatial velopment of the system will require: also include transport and spatial planning. Planning (MESP), the Association of Koso- vo Municipalities (AKM) and MuSPP/UN- • The development of municipal public The co-ordination between spatial plan- HABITAT in Kosovo, with the support of transport and their coordination with the ning and transport planning is a matter Capacity Building for European Integration inter-municipal system, as to form an at- of urban, environmental, economic and so- (UNDP/EU) are organising a cycle of con- tractive service from “stop to stop” (coher- cial policy. Ramadan Duraku, Head of Sec- ferences on Transport and Spatial planning. ence between networks is made of physi- tion at the MTPT and Luan Nushi, Director of cal interchanges, coordinated timetables, the Institute of Spatial Planning, present- The general purpose of these conferences is complete and uniform customer information ed the impressive amount of recent stud- to facilitate the dialogue between part- and, finally, common pricing and ticketing). ies that include relevant elements for the ners from different institutions, professional elaboration of the transport policy (analy- disciplines, organisational levels and sectors. • Passenger transport by rail can also play a sis of traffic flows, cost structures, organi- The first conference of the cycle, held on growing role in this integrated system and sational models, development scenarios, 31 October 2007 at Grand Hotel Pris- contribute to maintaining and expanding the etc.). Muhamet Morina, Department of pub- tina, was dedicated to Public Trans- demand for complementary bus services. lic utilities of the City of Pristina, explained port and was attended by more than “Informal” minibus services can also be inte- how the first post-war urban bus system 160 persons from all target groups. grated into the regulated and organised sys- was implemented and how the transport tem, as to ensure that service offer remains All speakers stressed that public transport system is planned to develop, accord- acceptable in marginal times and places. is one of the strategic issues that determine ing to Pristina’s Urban Development Plan. the future development of Kosovo: it’s ter- • The guarantee of good operating con- But policies are also made of strate- ritory, society and economy. Spatial plan- ditions for buses of all networks on re- gic political choices. Policy makers can ning, by definition, is also transport gional and municipal roads. Indeed, choose to let spontaneous development planning. Only a coherent, integrated, spa- with growing car traffic, buses face more determine the pattern of urbanisation and tial and transport policy can lead to success. traffic hazards and longer trip times. leave it to the public transport sector to But spatial planning with or for Public trans- As a consequence, operating costs increase decide whether, where and when to serve port is pointless if there are no operators while the service offer becomes less attractive. new markets. In this case, urban develop- who actually offer the service. Furthermore, This will lead to a vicious circle that will make ment is most likely to be largely car based. planning with Public transport becomes more public transport dependent on public subsidy Policies can also recognise that public trans- effective if the operators develop their busi- and a shift of passengers from buses to pri- port is the most efficient urban transport ness in a regulated and organised manner. vate cars and, hence, more congestion, etc. mode and that, therefore, access to the This higher level of organisation re- The regulation and organisation of interur- city and larger distances within the city quires new forms of co-ordination be- ban bus services in Kosovo can certainly be should primarily be carried out by means tween public authorities responsible for qualified as a success story, as described of public transport. In order to achieve different components of the system. by Qamil Feka, Head of the Road transport this, urban development plans need to in- department in MTPT. The system based Constantin Dellis, Regional manager of clude well designed high capacity public on 10 main corridors that are served with the International Association of Public transport networks and ensure that urban more than 1000 vehicles links all major and Transport (UITP) stressed the importance development and densification builds up secondary cities of Kosovo to Pristina and of institutions that organise the co-op- around these strong public transport axis. among each other, every weekday from 7 eration between public authorities and Frédy Wittwer, Director of the Interna- to 19 hours, with a frequency of up to 8 (private) operators. He presented theo- tional Institute for Mobility Training, Ge- departures/hour. Last not least, the system retical and real world models that show neva, pointed out that investments in is entirely financed by passenger revenues. how “Organising authorities” can public transport corridors are strategic de- From this achievement, the system will fulfil this role. But the task of co-ordination cisions that should take into account the have to evolve as to keep up with the is only incompletely fulfilled if it is limited full range of external costs, i.e. accidents, demand for mobility and the competi- to the organisation of public transport ser air pollution, consumption of public space. tion from private cars. The further de vices. Effective strategic integration must (Continues page 11) MuSPP NEWSLETTER 5/ 02 • February 2008 11

The long term evaluation should also take In Peja/Pec, the Municipal Development growing quantities and proportions of traf- into account rising energy prices, the long Plan (MDP) is finalised. Agron Sallova, fic. In this respect, Xhevat Ramosaj, Man- lasting effects of efficient urban form and MuSPP Spatial planning advisor, explained aging Director of Kosovo Railways has infrastructure. In his view, Kosovo can that tackling the mobility and transport presented the rebirth of the Pristina–Peja/ make the wise and determined decisions challenge is recognised as the principal Pec railway line for passenger traffic on now that will avoid the country going factor for the success of its implementa- 1st October 2007. Of course, the current down the costly road of car dependence. tion. If the Municipality does not manage share of total traffic of this newly opened to limit traffic congestion caused by cars line that is still operated with only two units Two Municipalities, Ferizaj/Urosevac and and to ensure easy access to the city cen- is very small. But the seed for a modern, Peja/Pec are making concrete plans for pro- tre from the peripheral neighbourhoods efficient multimodal and sustainable trans- viding public transport. Ferizaj/Urosevac and from other locations, many more ur- port system is planted and will grow, if municipality has decided to rely on the rail- ban functions will migrate to the outskirts transport and spatial planning policies are ways, in the future, too, and value it’s privi- or even rural locations, which will, in turn, determined to continue in this direction. leged situation as the major stop between encourage inhabitants to leave the city. the two capital cities(Prishtina-Skopje). Throughout the day, discussions between the In this perspective, it is crucial to ensure The creation of an effective Citybus speakers and the public were lively. Most in- that the urban centre remains and devel- network is one of the solutions to this prob- terventions pointed to the risk of discrepan- ops around the location of the railway sta- lem: a network of urban bus lines converge cies between the theory of sustainable devel- tion and that this location will offer a maxi- in a city centre location at regular and rela- opment exposed by planning and transport mal degree of accessibility by all means of tively short intervals, precisely on time as to experts and the reality of car based devel- transport, that it offers a large amount of ensure reliable service and easy transfers be- opment that is taking place on the ground. high quality space for employment, shops tween lines. This requires the guarantee that and housing and that the public space the buses are never caught in traffic jams. It therefore is urgent that Transport and in the area is pleasant and attractive. Spatial planning experts, administrations But Municipal strategies to rely more and and decision makers quickly produce more Mustafë Zariqi, Chief of the Planning Sec- solidly on the inter-municipal bus network ambitious action for integrated spatial tion of the Municipality of Ferizaj/Uro- and on the railway for their accessibility and transport planning and use their sevac, presented the Mobility centre from distant locations can only succeed combined competence and powers to imple- design contest that was launched in if other Municipalities develop the same ment, rather sooner than later, the funda- November 2007 and will reward the best strategy and if the services offered by the ments of sustainable urbanisation in Kosovo. proposals for meeting this challenge. buses and the railways evolve as to serve

Co-productive ways to relate visioning and strategic urban projects

The International Society of City and Re- sion’ before entering the debate with the ners and citizens. The question was raised gional Planners (ISOCaRP) held its annual citizens, that planners should do the plan- “how much should planners immerse them- world congress in Antwerp, Belgium in Sep- ning but not decide the goals and objec- selves into the neighbourhood?” This led to tember, attended by 356 delegates from tives. “Planning is not about forecasting thinking about what could be encouraged 44 countries, representing five continents. the future but about preparing the future” in Kosovo in order to more organically im- The congress theme was Urban Trialogues and strategic urban projects can make prove participation in planning? Perhaps Co-productive ways to relate visioning and abstract visions visible. It was suggested municipal planners could instigate regu- strategic urban projects - a very relevant that projects should start earlier during the lar, informal ‘meet the citizens’ afternoons theme to the work that MuSPP/UN-HABI- development of the spatial plan, this way each month. TAT programme is undertaking in Kosovo. more knowledge and information can be The word ‘trialogue’ is a play on the word gathered early. It is also important to note This could be in the form of a drop-in ‘dialogue’ to cover the interaction of three that participation in planning creates ex- session, with coffee (maybe even cake!), parties or elements. The idea of an urban pectations and this requires commitment, where casual interaction and knowledge trialogue can be manifold, such as the in- critical reflection and action. sharing can take place outside formal pub- teraction between the urban community, lic or municipal meetings. This could be the public and the private sector but one Key questions at the congress included: extended to the use of new technologies important description introduced in the how to bridge the gap between theory and and virtual interaction, with online forums congress concerned the links between the practice, how to use the tools of planning and regular online news updates regard- three elements of Strategic Projects, Sus- and politics, how to undertake participation ing planning issues. As it was noted at the tainability and Participation. These links with non-homogenous and un-united com- congress, educated communities are es- need to be made in order to achieve effec- munities, how to deal with informal settle- sential to achieving sustainability and plan- tive urban planning. ment development, how to revitalize rural ners need to be less technocratic and more communities and how to balance econom- community minded to help ensure this. Visioning and Collaborative Planning were ic, environmental and social hierarchies. Breaking down the barriers and encour- key themes and it was highlighted that vi- There was much discussion regarding the aging a truly inclusive planning process sioning is the result of negotiation - it must accessibility of planning departments to the would surely lead to better outcomes for have a consensus. It was suggested that community, and the level of real interaction Kosovo’s cities. planners should have an idea or ‘pre-vi- and mutual understanding between plan- For more information go to: www.isocarp.org MuSPP NEWSLETTER 5/ 02 • February 2008 12

Visioning Junik

Junik–is really UNIQUE. It is a place of tradition and Oda as an institution, an Eth- nographic Park of natural and cultural heri- tage, whose protection will generate wealth and sustainable development for its citi- zens, with a substantive role in the regional tourism offer and European integration..

The “Visioning Junik” workshop was held between 17 and 22 October with the support of the CHwB-Cultural Heri- tage without Borders and UN-HABITAT.

Participants in the workshop included ex- perts of different fields, planners, rep- resentatives of the business community, members of cultural heritage initiatives from Junik and civil society. The natural, cultural and historical heritage of Junik municipality makes it a place with special characteristics. This was the starting point which motivated the participants of the workshop to work on developing a clear vi- sion for Junik municipality. The vision for Junik municipality speaks of a better future and easy access to development services.

The workshop started with the nostal- gic map, followed by the selection of the main issues including: development of tourism, regional cooperation, urban zoning and neighborhoods and protec- tion of natural and cultural heritage. Discussions on SWOT analyses, objec- tives and activities held during the work- shop were followed by a graphical pre- sentation of the vision in the spatial structure planned for Junik municipality. All participants, as important stakehold- ers in inclusive local development plan- ning, worked together and contributed to the formulation of the vision for Junik.

Junik is a traditional place with a valuable past and a bright future, and this message was reinforced during the workshop. As such, the municipality and its citizens deserve a better future and commitment of the local government as well as from the community to cultivate the natural heritage including the cultural heritage, to protect and make it attractive, not only for the visitors, but for the citizens of this municipality as well. veloped, it will give grounds for the urban assistance and contribution to developing On 14 November 2007, the vision was regulatory plan which is a priority of the Junik’s vision as a place which is unique. presented to the citizens and media in a municipality and for which cooperation with restored Kulla in Junik. Results in this work- UN-HABITAT and CHwB would be most Shkodran Gaxherri shop contributed to initiating the first phase needed. Both of these organisations de- Vice-Mayor of Junik Municipality of the Urban Development Plan. Once de serve credit and acknowledgment for their MuSPP NEWSLETTER 5/ 02 • February 2008 13

Planning issues in the Pilot Municipal Unit Hani i Elezit

In November 2007, a three day workshop on spatial planning issues was held in Hani i Elezit. The aim of the workshop was to introduce the staff and the new administra- tion of this Pilot Municipal Unit (PMU) to the challenges in municipal planning. The workshop was organized by OSCE and PMU Hani i Elezit, while the professional support was given by MuSPP/UN-HABITAT experts.

On the first day of the workshop interna- tional principles in urban and spatial plan- ning were introduced by MuSPP municipal planning expert Ismajl Baftijari, followed by discussions among participants.

The second day of the workshop included of planning section in Hani i Elezit and the hearing the experiences of other munici- the presentation on the legal and techni- coordinator of the Planning Experts Group. palities on the preparation of Municipal and cal issues in regards to spatial planning in Urban Development Plans, and in particu- Kosovo. The presentation was done by the A SWOT analysis was done for different lar the visioning process. legal expert, Lazim Salihu. This was fol- planning fields, including: economy, infra- lowed by discussions and questions on the structure, mobility, housing, socio-cultural On behalf of the participants I would like to issues of public property designation and issues, ecology, and agriculture. The groups thank and acknowledge MuSPP experts for its use. came up with interesting presentations. the support in the spatial municipal plan- ning process. We look forward to a con- The second day combined the presentations The third day sessions of the workshop tinuation of this kind of cooperation. on the spatial development framework and provided information on vision, principles, the municipal profile by the MuSPP munici- aims and development framework. The Sami Stagova pal planning advisor in Gjilan/Gnjilane, Huig participants highly valued the opportunity Chief of planning section in Hani i Elezit and Deneef, and a presentation of the profile of to gain experience while working in groups coordinator of the Planning Experts Group Hani i Elezit by Sami Stagova, chief and have discussed these topics, but also

European Council of Spatial Planners in Nicosia 16-18 November, 2007 the European Coun- gov.cy/moi/urbanguard/urbanguard.nsf/), in 2009, in Nancy/France cil of Spatial Planners (ECTP) held its Gen- Glafkos Constantinides, planning consul- • ECTP will organize a ceremony with Eu- eral Assembly meeting in Nicosia/Cyprus. tant, presented the Nicosia Master Plan, ropean Planning Awards, autumn 2008, in The ECTP brings together 26 professional a joint initiative of both communities of Dublin. spatial planning associations and institutes the divided city (Greek and Turkish Cypri- from 24 European countries. It is an um- ots), under a UNDP umbrella (read more Regarding the future membership of brella association providing its members on http://www.undp-unops-pff.org/News. Kosovo planners, possible scenarios were with a common framework for planning asp?CiD=97). This presentation and expe- explored with the newly elected president, practice, planning education, continuing rience of the divided city is relevant for the Ms Virna Bussadori. ECTP is very much in professional development and the defini- case of Mitrovica. A visit to the divided city favour of welcoming planners from former tion of professional responsibilities (for centre of Nicosia and the information kiosk central and east European countries and more see http://www.ceu-ectp.org). on the Nicosia Master Plan was very useful regions, including Western Balkans. The to witness the huge planning challenges on Serbian planners entered already with an In Nicosia the ECTP meeting was welcomed both sides. observatory status, and the same could by the Greek Cypriot Minister of Interior Af- happen to the Kosovar planners. fairs and Spatial Planning. He opened a Other topics discussed at the ECTP meet- special session on some spatial planning ing were: Miran Gajsek, vice-president of ECTP and issues in Cyprus with European relevance. • the Romanian Planners Association was president of the Slovenian planners’ asso- Phaedon Enitiades, planning consultant, welcomed as new member ciation is appointed as focal point and men- presented the results of Urban Guard, an • ECTP will organize a Conference “After tor for the Kosovar Planners. Miran Gajsek EU-funded project to facilitate the incorpo- Leipzig” (see latest MuSPP newsletter), in is well familiar with the Kosovo situawtion ration of sustainability indicators into the London, early 2008 and hosted the MuSPP delegation on our spatial planning process in Cyprus through • ECTP will support the organisation of the study tour to Slovenia in 2006. a custom made GIS-tool. (see www.moi. next Biennial of Towns and Town Planners 14 MuSPP NEWSLETTER 5/02 • February 2008

Volunteerism in MuSPP/UN-HABITAT in Kosovo Volunteerism is a natural and fundamental and mobilises thousands of volunteers commit their work to help in the improve- part of most societies. The UN Volunteers every year in pursuit of distinctive con- ment of quality and living conditions in programme (UNV) advocates the benefits tributions to development effectiveness. MuSSP partner cities. The motivation of civic engagement, integrates volun- Today UN-HABITAT/ MuSPP employs 6 and experience of four UNV working with teerism into development programmes, International and 8 National UNVs who MuSPP are summarised in the texts below.

Retrospective by a UN Volunteer tion managed to recruit the right expertise accomplish my mission with the feeling of and to build policy supporting programmes satisfaction in October 2007. I am convinced Undoubtedly, I was not the only urban plan- for the short and medium term with a rather that the functioning and the targets of sev- ner with that feeling. I had a diploma and a limited budget. I applied for the MuSPP and eral officials were influenced by my efforts suitable job that had provided me a sound in the spring of 2006 I arrived in Kosovo. and adjusted in a more pro-active direction. understanding of the operation of the state Personally, I’m satisfied when I look back on But for myself, I also benefited a lot. The im- and the society. I functioned as a cog in a my nineteen months as a UN Volunteer in Peja/ mersion in a different culture was a fascinat- well-oiled system, and was wondering if I as Peć. After my arrival, it took me some time to ing experience. And I enjoyed very much the a person who actually made a difference. I find the right accents. It was known to me that infinite desolate landscapes in the “Cursed realised that there are quite some regions in the spatial problems in Kosovo are very unlike Mountains”. Furthermore, I got the chance to the world where the machine is not running those in Belgium. But how different they were visit a large part of the Balkans and to sniff that smoothly, and where a touch of western was a question I only got answer after I had the whole range of cultures and histories. And expertise could be welcomed. And I thought lived and worked in Peja/Peć for a few months. I am already prepared for a happy return: that it could be really exciting to broaden Kosovo and the surrounding countries are my own horizons and help at the same time. Within the functioning of the administra- still on my list of future holiday destinations! tion there were larger obstacles, but my lo- UN-HABITAT is one of the organisations that cal colleagues did their best to involve mu- Kobe Boussauw, Gent, Belgium could provide an answer to my questions. nicipal officials in our work. And after I had Ex International UNV in Peja/Pec Through the UNV Programme, the organisa- adjusted my personal goals a little, I could

This is my first contract as a National UN drop”; this sentence makes me feel confident zens are becoming aware of the fact that Volunteer (NUNV). When I came to work, and continue working with more dedication. civil society has an important role in making the MuSP Programme in Gjakova/Dja- Working for MuSPP in Gjakova/Djakovica has their city a better place to live. Today more kovica has been already going on and offered me a chance to learn more on how to built than ever citizens of Gjakova/Djakovica feel I had to catch up with things quickly. partnership and co-operate with officials, civil responsible for co-operation with local gov- society, community and relevant stakeholders ernments for upgrading the quality of life. Being part of UNV programme means tak- in spatial and urban development processes. ing part of promotion of Volunteerism. Vol- Enhancing the civic participation in plan- unteerism brings a great feeling; I think this The greatest success is that we raised the ning processes can be achieved through is the spirit of Kosovars as well. Sometimes awareness among people for the importance increased volunteerism. I therefore be- I really feel that what we do is too little, of citizen’s participation in the planning pro- lieve that we can do more on this matter concerning the great needs of people but cess. Sometimes we might feel what we by using the great potential of voluntarism. always I go back to Mother Teresa’s words are doing seems to be too little if compared “Sometimes we ourselves feel that what we to the greater needs of our society but we Pren Domgjoni are doing is just the drop in ocean, but the should see it as a start for something to MuSPP NUNV in Gjakova/Djakovica ocean will be less because of that missing change or improve. Gjakova/Djakovica citi-

After six months of being a National UN Volun- ing a better future for their city is re- ger. If each of us would dedicate at least teer (NUNV) in MuSPP in Kosovo I am more a ally a great satisfaction and something five minutes a day to help the others, the glad to say that it is a great honour and pleasure what each person should experience. world would be a much better place to live. to be a part of such an important organisation. I hope my work as a NUNV will continue in the Our work requires a lot of energy, time, pa- future and I will do my best to fulfil our goals I am very satisfied with the work I do and tience and motivation, but knowing that and mission, as I was trying to do until now. the team I work with, although I am aware my work actually helped at least one per- that we can always do better and more. son to make his or her life better and nicer Darko Djoric The feeling of helping people creat- is great and nothing else matters any lon- MuSPP UNV in north part of Mitrovica

UNV with MuSPP/UN-HABITAT: Mak- cently and many ideas for implementation are Netherlands, but I can learn a lot in Peja/Pec ing the plan work ready. My job is to assist the Municipality in as well. At least, I am not an international making the implementation of the plan work. consultant who needs a large fee to work. As a spatial planner I love cities. They always develop and are never finished. UN-HABITAT There are many challenges that plan aims Working as a volunteer is a new occurrence as an UN agency which is concerned with cit- to meet: improve the traffic situation, - up for me. It makes me rethink my work eth- ies and mandated to promote their socially grade the quality of the public spaces, etc. ics. Why do I want to contribute to the urban and environmentally sustainable develop- A lot of new buildings have been construct- development of Peja/Pec? For me it’s about ment, through the MuSPP in Kosovo employs ed in recent years. Investments are there, building trust and reciprocity among people. UN Volunteers. I contribute as a volunteer in but there is a need to guide them. For us, So, I hope the city of Peja/Pec loves me as Peja/Pec, a medium size city along the river as planners the task is to help steer the ur- much as I love the city. situated at the foot of snow-topped mountains. ban development in the right direction. Wouter van der Heijde This is my city now and I love it! As a volunteer I try to be close to the people. MuSPP International UNV in Peja/Pec An Urban Development Plan was adopted re- Of course I’ll bring my experience from the MuSPP NEWSLETTER 5/ 02 • February 2008 15

Land subdivision: a neglected aspect of land development in Kosovo “Houses make a town, but citizens make a city”(Jean-Jasques Rousseau)

Kosovo’s urban landscape has been increas- middle-class neighbourhoods. Many, if not urban land, in which process the regulation ingly dominated by the colour of new bricks. most, of these situations have been the re- of future land subdivisions is of utmost im- The rapid flourishing of constructions is one sult of informal development (another process portance. Most Kosovans have already shown of the most striking aspects of the post-con- of difficult definition and even more difficult that they can build, and well, through their flict period. Although precise data and num- estimation in numbers), in that, to different own socioeconomic mechanisms; however, bers are always elusive, cities such as Pristina extents and in different ways, the prevailing better constructions require not only better are clearly showing that the process of urban legal provisions have been disregarded, either specific technical requirements, but a better land development has intensified recently. because of legal problems of land ownership, regulation of the land development process This process has taken many shapes, ranging or because of the lack of respect for the urban underlying them, that of land subdivision. from the precarious occupations - of their own planning and construction regulations in force. or someone else’s private land, or of public A broader analysis of the censes of informal or socially-owned land - by poor people and If the growing process of informal devel- settlements is directly available on www. minority social groups such as the Roma/ opment is to be successfully prevented in unhabitat-kosovo.org Ashkali/Egyptian “mahalas”, to more consoli- Kosovo in the near future, it is fundamental Edesio Fernandes dated forms of land development generating to widen the conditions of access to serviced MuSPP/UN-HABITAT Legal consultant media corner In the Media Corner we select some interesting headlines and quotes from news with regard to urban planning and developments in Kosovo. The original articles can be copied in request

GJILAN/GNJILANE kova/Djakovica helped the compilation of this Pejë/Pec-Deçan, close to the Italian KFOR base. “Gjilan 2005 – 2015” statement. “We want to give this vision decla- Source Koha Ditore, 30 October 2007 ration to the municipal authorities in hope that The article provides information on the pub- it will become part of the Municipal and Urban FERIZAJ/UROSEVAC lic review of the Municipal Development Plan Development Plan” said Ramush Hajdari, UN- of Gjilan/Gnjilane municipality. “This plan is HABITAT representative in Gjakova/Djakovica. Many needs, lack of money very advanced and positive”, said Fadil Sher- Source Lajm, 12 November 2007 ifi, acting director of Directorate of Urban- This article carries information on the new ism, the responsible authority for this project. major’s projects to be invested in 2008 in PRIZREN Ferizaj/Urosevac. The biggest investments will Civil society supports drafting of the be done mainly in infrastructure. The capital “By using its central position in the double tri- municipal development plan angle, Gjilan/Gnjilane will be a contemporary project with an investment of 800 000 Euros bridge, by offering qualitative services to its The article provides information on the inte- will be in the water system network for some citizens in a sustainable environment, dynamic grated vision document for Prizren municipality parts of the city including ten villages. Over education and modern technology that supports which supports the preparation of the Munici- 533 000 euros are foreseen for the construc- economic growth, in particular agriculture de- pal Development Plan (MDP). A workshop was tion of schools, while 400 000 euros for the velopment”, said Shkëlzen Qorraj, the represen- organised by UN-HABITAT, aiming at the inte- adjustment of sewage system mainly in the tative of Intech company, who drafted the plan. gration of the objectives put forward by civil villages. Source Lajm, 27 November 2007 society for the future development of Prizren. “Different to previous years, this time the GJAKOVA/ DJAKOVICA A UN-HABITAT consultant, Frank Schwartze, board of directors has offered to the Policy Vision Declaration for Gjakova/Djakovi- moderating the meeting, explained that the and Finance Committee of the Municipal As- ca is completed workshop would enable the preparation of a sembly a big list of the projects for 2008, with strategy prepared with the participation of the an amount of more than seven million euros. Having in mind the actual possibilities, the The Municipal Assembly of Gjakova/Djakovica, civil society to be used during the preparation assisted by UN-HABITAT completed a Vision of the MDP. The outcomes from the workshop Committee has chosen the most urgent proj- Declaration for the future of Gjakova/Djakovica. emphasized the importance of the protection ects to be implemented in 2008. Citizens will of the historical centre, the expansion of the not participate in all investment project, only In this declaration, Gjakova/Djakovica is pre- industrial zone; making the housing areas the ones on which Municipal Assembly de- sented as a place with rich cultural, historical less dense and protecting agriculture land. cided”, said Dukagjin Hetemi, the former Chief Executive of Ferizaj/Urosevac municipality. and natural heritage; city of rivers; capital Source Koha Ditore, 23 December 2007 of Gjakova/Djakovica Highland, and a place Source Lajm, 27 November 2007 of economic and agriculture development; a PEJA/PEC free border zone, open for cooperation with Fame of the tradition MITROVICA neighbouring countries and the world, us- 30 kiosks removed ing its airport; a University centre in specific Peja/Pec is still known as a centre in which busi- settings; a healthy and ecological environ- ness is a family tradition, inherited by children The article provides information on the action ment that can attract foreign investors; a from their parents. But the decline in business taken by the Municipal Assembly in Mitrovica city with modern infrastructure and a good activities in Peja/Pec is coming as a conse- on the removal of the kiosks from the old offer for a development of tourism, inte- quence of growing competition and decrease of market to relocate them to the new market. grated into the European development net- purchasing power. The Municipality is search- work and ready in meeting actual challenges. ing for options to develop a business devel- The space of the old market, with the ex- opment zone, where small-and-medium sized ception of the part dedicated to the green A cycle of workshops with the civil society businesses would find good conditions without market, will be turned into a green space ac- representatives, representatives from govern- negatively affecting the urban environment. cording to the new urban development plan. ment, business community and experts in Gja This zone might be established across the road Source Lajm, 22 October 2007 16 MuSPP NEWSLETTER 5/02 • February 2008

Announcement:

Harmonious Urbanisation The Challenge of Balanced Territorial Development

UN-HABITAT and the Government of China welcome you to the Fourth session of the World Urban Forum at the Nanjing Conven- tion and Exhibition Centre, 13–17 October, 2008. Held every two years, the Forum is the world’s premier conference on cities and the problems they face in a world where half of humanity is ur- banized – in the new era of homo urbanus.

Situated in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, the ancient Chinese city of Nanjing dates back more than 2000 years and is known as the ancient capital of the Six Dynasties of China. It is home to almost 4 million people, a population which is rapidly expanding, propelled by a dynamic local economy. Nanjing and UN-HABITAT welcome you to the Fourth session of the World Urban Forum, October 13–17, 2008 at The Nanjing Convention and Exhibition Center.

The World Urban Forum is held every two years. It was estab- lished by the United Nations to examine rapid urbanization and its impact on communities, cities, economies and policies.

More information is provided in www.unhabitat.org

Making Better Cities Together

To ensure a better life to all its citizens, Kosovo needs better cities. This can only be achieved by planning and working all together. “Mak- ing Better Cities Together” is the motto of the Sida-funded Municipal Spatial Planning Support Programme, through which UN-HABITAT will support the municipal spatial planning in Kosovo. Kosovo cities and towns are in the process of drafting the municipal and urban plans. The plans are to be strategic and action oriented, detailed in the urban regulatory plans and implemented through private and public investments. The six secondary cities of Kosovo - Pejë/Pec, Gjakova/Djakovica, Prizren, Mitrovicë/Mitrovica, Ferizaj/Urosevac and Gjilan/Gnjilane - can contribute to a more balanced development of Kosovo and reduce the ongoing migration of population to the capital city, Prishtinë/Pristina. Through integration in the European urban network, the Kosovo cities and its citizens will be connected with other European cities. This can be achieved by attracting investments in sustainable urban development and improving access for all. Private investments are needed to match the public funds in order to provide better services to the citizens: decent social housing, hospitals, schools, roads, public transport and last but not least attractive public spaces to respond to the needs of the changing society.

IMPRESSUM

MunicipalProgramMunicipal Spatialpomoći Spatial Planningprostornom Planning Suppport planiranju Suppport Programme u opštinama Programme in na Kosovo inKosovu Kosovo

Office: Kancelarija:Office: InformationInformacijeInformation & Communication/PR& Komunikacije/PR & Communication/PR UN-HABITATUN-HABITAT Kosovo Kosovo HeadSef of kancelarije Office UN-HABITAT Kosovo LumnijeLumnijeLumnije Gashi Gashi Gashi Head of Office Nazim NazimGafurri Gafurri Str, No. Str, 33, No. 33, Elisabeth Belpaire Ulica Nazim Gafurri, br. 33, [email protected]@[email protected] ElisabethElisabeth Belpaire Belpaire 10000 Prishtina,10000 Prishtina, Kosovo Kosovo [email protected] 10000 Prishtina, Kosovo [email protected]@unhabitat-kosovo.org Tel:: Tel:: +381/38/517835 +381/38/517835 Tel:: +381/38/517835 MoreViše informationsMore informacija informations about o about Fax: Fax: +381/38/517836 +381/38/517836 Fax: +381/38/517836 UN-HABITAT/MuSPPUN-HABITAT/MuSPPUN-HABITAT/MuSPP www.unhabitat-kosovo.orgwww.unhabitat-kosovo.orgwww.unhabitat-kosovo.org

ThisOvaj NewsletterThis bilten Newsletter je isomogućila made is possible made švedska possible by Vladathe Governmentby prekothe Government Sida-e. of Sweden Sva of viđenja, Sweden through mišljenja through Sida. All i Sida.zaključci views, All opinionsviews, su autorski. opinions and Članciconclusions and bezconclusions potpisa are those deloare of thosesu the tima authors.of MuSPP.the authors. ArticlesDoprinosiArticles without koji without author se odnose bylinesauthor na bylinesare opštine part are ofne partthe moraju MuSPP of the da MuSPP odražavajuteam. Contributions team. stav Contributions i odluku regarding dotične regarding municipalities opštine. municipalities Sadržaj do not ovih necessarilydo članakanot necessarily nereflect mora reflectthe da odražavaposition the position and stav and decisionUN-HABITAT-adecision of the municipalitiesof theo pokrenutim municipalities concerned. pitanjima concerned. Theili datim content The izjavama content of these i neof articles morathese daarticles do odražava not donecessarily not viđenja necessarily reflectSida-e, reflect iliUN-HABITAT’s vlade UN-HABITAT’sŠvedske. position position on issues on issuesraised raisedor or statementsstatements made and made do andnot neccesarilydo not neccesarily reflect reflectthe views the ofviews Sida ofor theSida Governmentor the Government of Sweden. of Sweden.

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Pruduction: MuSPP/Information & Communication Unit Communication & MuSPP/Information Pruduction: