New framework plan for sustainable urban development
In order to provide more support to European cities in solving problems related to unemployment, traffic and the environment, a new Framework for Action dedicated to the promotion of sustainable urban development, has recently been adopted by the European Commission. While the Framework Plan does not seek to impose specific urban solutions, it instead proposes a more effective application of EU policies and instruments and calls for the adaptation of European policies, legislation and funding so that they pursue common objectives. It also incorporates a range of examples for innovative activities, networking and benchmarking which will assist local action and spread good practice. The new Framework Plan will be presented at the European Urban Forum to be held in Vienna, Austria, on 26 and 27 November 1998. The event will enable a wide range of actors from various levels of government to voice their views on how the European Commission can best promote and/or facilitate integrated approaches to sustainable urban development. Discussions will focus on the four policy aims of the Framework Plan: - Strengthening productivity, employment and economic growth in towns and cities; - Promoting equality and social inclusion in urban areas; - Protecting and improving the urban environment: local and global sustainability; - Contributing to good urban governance and local empowerment.