The Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Kyrgyzstan, has begun developing the country’s first unified methodology for master planning growth hubs.
To implement the Programme of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic on the formation and development of growth hubs for 2025-2030, a methodology has been prepared that defines a standardized approach to the development of master plans, according to UNDP in Kyrgyzstan.
The master plan is a public, comprehensive strategic document for territorial development that describes a forward-looking vision for the development of a growth hub. Its structure allows for the transformation of general goals, improving quality of life, developing the economy, improving the environmental situation into specific and measurable indicators, such as the number of available places in kindergartens and schools, the availability of parks within walking distance, and the level of air pollution by PM2.5 particles.
First Deputy Minister of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic Choro Seyitov noted: “The development of a unified master planning methodology is an important step towards the systematic development of regions. We are creating a tool that will allow each city and aimak to plan its future based on accurate data, public involvement, and clear guidelines for sustainable growth.”
The master plan forms a holistic vision of the future development of the city and surrounding areas. Local administrations and councils, the business community, non-profit organizations, residents, experts, and government agencies play a key role in its formation. The development process is open and inclusive: the opinions of all stakeholders are gathered and taken into account from the earliest stages. Once the master plan is approved, its implementation will be transparent and traceable for investors, the public, and development institutions.
UNDP Resident Representative in the Kyrgyz Republic Alexandra Solovieva emphasized: “Master planning is an international practice that increases the sustainability and competitiveness of territories. We are pleased to support the Kyrgyz Republic in creating the first national methodology that will help shape fair, environmentally friendly, and livable cities and communities.”
Thanks to mandatory georeferencing of data, master plans will include a significant array of cartographic materials that clearly reflect planned transformations, infrastructure changes, and growth directions. One of the key outcomes of master planning will be comprehensive territorial development projects that synchronize economic priorities, transport loads, social infrastructure needs, housing and utilities systems, and environmental requirements.
The creation of master plans will be an important step towards the open, balanced, and predictable development of cities and rural districts in Kyrgyzstan, forming the basis for sustainable growth and improving the quality of life of the population.
