The constitutional principles applicable to spatial planning

Abstract

This article aims to analyse the position of spatial planning in the Constitution of the Portuguese Republic (CRP), while considering the various constitutional principles and bases and the developments introduced by the periodic revisions since the original text in 1976. The authors look at how the CRP makes spatial planning one of the state’s fundamental tasks, and at how it is linked to the rights to housing and urbanism, the environment and quality of life, the promotion of economic and social development, territorial cohesion and the implementation of the principles of subsidiarity, autonomy, decentralisation and participation, presenting a contextual reading of the changes over the years. They conclude that the constitutional status of spatial planning is broad, demonstrating a theoretical / conceptual social importance that is not fully reflected in its practical application.