Editorial: The situation of green spaces in Timișoara in the context of recent residential developments

by Ilie-Vasile Sirbu, Local Counsellor, member of the Climate Council

The situation of green spaces in Timișoara in the context of recent residential developments 

Timișoara has been facing an accelerated urban transformation process in recent years, driven by the increasing pressure of residential developments and the growing interest of investors in densifying urban land. The comparative analysis between the approved urban zoning plans (PUZ) and the technical documentation submitted later for the authorization of the works highlights a recurring phenomenon: the significant reduction of the green space areas provided for in the planning phase, with differences frequently reaching the 70% threshold.

These changes occur in the interval between the approval of the PUZ and the issuance of the building permit, a period in which projects undergo successive adjustments or reinterpretations of urban regulations. The lack of a firm mechanism for verifying compliance between the two stages constitutes a major vulnerability of contemporary Timișoara urban planning.

The problem is amplified by the absence of a complete and updated Register of Green Spaces. Many plots of land that function de facto as green spaces – including areas in historical parks such as Regina Maria Park – are registered in deeds as "building yards", which allows the possibility of building buildings. Situations such as the former NH Hotel or the location of the LUKOIL gas station in the vicinity of the "Constantin Jude" Hall are concrete examples of the effects of this cadastral incongruity.

The progressive loss of green spaces has direct consequences for the city: worsening the heat island effect, reducing soil permeability, accumulating rainwater, decreasing air quality and reducing community access to recreational areas. In addition, Timișoara risks deviating from European recommendations on sustainable urban development and climate adaptation.

In this regard, it is necessary to strengthen the administrative mechanisms for verifying the compliance between the PUZ and subsequent authorizations, as well as to urgently develop a complete, public and enforceable Green Space Register. The introduction of independent urban planning audits and the application of clear sanctions for unjustified modification of urban planning indicators are indispensable measures.

Only by strengthening these instruments and aligning them with European sustainability standards can Timișoara ensure balanced urban development, protecting environmental resources and the quality of life of its inhabitants.