Brno approves new Zoning plan and CZK 24 billion budget for 2025

In a landmark decision, representatives of Brno approved a new zoning plan and a record CZK 24 billion budget for the coming year. The zoning plan, which has been under development for over two decades, was passed with 54 votes in favor and no opposition, marking the city’s first comprehensive update in 30 years. The plan will come into effect in February 2025, offering a roadmap for Brno’s urban development while safeguarding key green spaces and historic areas.

The new zoning plan paves the way for significant development, including the utilization of over 100 brownfields and the potential to build homes for up to 170,000 new residents. However, the city’s expansion, which currently houses 400,000 inhabitants, will depend on the parallel development of transport, technical infrastructure, and civic amenities. Flood control measures will also be streamlined under the new framework.

“This zoning plan represents a milestone for Brno,” said Mayor Markéta Vaňková (ODS). “The additional two and a half years of preparation have resulted in a document that balances growth and environmental protection. While we couldn’t satisfy every request due to conflicting interests, the overall plan is robust and future-oriented.”

The plan divides the city into stabilized areas, where significant reconstruction is not anticipated, and areas of change, where development will be encouraged with an emphasis on green spaces.

Councillor Petr Bořecký (ANO) highlighted the plan’s focus on environmental protection, while opposition councillors, including Jana Drápalová (Zelení) and Břetislav Štefan (SOCDEM), commended the enhanced safeguards for greenery. However, some concerns remain. Representative Jiří Kment (SPD) questioned whether the plan might give developers excessive leeway, while Matěj Hollan (Žít Brno), who abstained, expressed reservations about potential procedural errors during the plan’s preparation.

Representatives credited the extensive work of the Office of the Architect of the City of Brno (KAM) and the Municipal Department of Spatial Planning and Development. “Thousands of objections and demands were addressed, but it’s impossible to accommodate everyone,” said Jan Tesárek, KAM’s director. He assured residents that changes and legal challenges would be addressed post-approval.

Alongside the zoning plan, Brno’s representatives approved a CZK 24 billion budget for 2025, up from CZK 19.5 billion this year. Revenues are projected at CZK 19.9 billion, with a loan of CZK 4.3 billion earmarked for key investments, including a multifunctional arena.

The opposition raised concerns about the city’s growing debt. “Increasing indebtedness for projects like the arena is concerning,” said opposition members from the Greens.

The combined budget for Brno and its 29 city districts totals CZK 25.8 billion in expenditures, with revenues of CZK 21 billion.

Brno’s new zoning plan and budget signal an ambitious future, balancing growth, environmental considerations, and financial challenges. While questions remain about implementation, the city’s leadership believes the decisions made today will shape a brighter tomorrow for residents and businesses alike.