Romania’s pro-Western parties agree on new Urban Planning Code after presidential mediation

In a rare display of cross-party cooperation, representatives of Romania’s pro-Western parties reportedly reached a broad agreement on the new Urban Planning Code during consultations mediated by the Presidency on July 16. The deal is a crucial milestone under the National Relaunch and Resilience Plan (PNRR), unlocking a €1.1 billion grant, and must be passed in parliament by the end of August.

The agreement comes amid a deepening political crisis following the collapse of the governing coalition, marking one of the first signs of unity among the major parties. Participants included the Social Democratic Party (PSD), Liberal Party (PNL), Save Romania Union (USR), and the Hungarians’ party UDMR. The discussions were convened by President Nicușor Dan.

Key provisions of the new Code incorporate the result of the Bucharest referendum on construction permits, shifting authority to the General City Hall. USR deputy Radu Mihaiu confirmed that green spaces will not receive special regulations under the Code, and the law on beaches will remain independent. All changes are agreed in principle and will be discussed with the European Commission before parliamentary debate.

However, negotiations continue on other politically sensitive PNRR reforms, including the new public sector Wage Law and amendments to integrity legislation, where consensus remains more difficult to achieve. The draft law, sent by the government to Parliament two years ago, must enter into force by August 31 to meet PNRR deadlines.

Article and image source: romania-insider.com