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Following the International Urban Planning Forum UrbanWay, a document has been prepared that is intended to mark the beginning of a new stage in the development of master planning — a key instrument of territorial development that is expected to encompass hundreds of Russian cities in the near future. The resolution prepared by the Agency for strategic development "CENTER" formulates proposals aimed at adapting this institution to contemporary challenges. Among the key initiatives is the scaling of the positive experience of the Russian Far East to the entire country.

It is precisely the Russian Far East that has become a kind of laboratory for master planning, as master plans are currently being implemented for 25 cities in the region. Moreover, this process is managed through a unique information system that makes it possible to monitor implementation from the planning stage through to commissioning. This experience has been recognised as a benchmark, and the resolution proposes extending its application in line with the instruction of the President of Russia to develop 200 master plans.

The document contains a number of provisions designed to make territorial development management flexible, responsive, and based on the use of the most accurate data available. “Master Plan 2.0” is thus defined as a dynamic digital tool that must be continuously updated. It will be based on digital twins of cities created using BIM technologies, data collected via drones, and geographic information systems. This will make it possible to model the consequences of management decisions and to introduce adjustments rapidly.

The resolution notes that routine operations should be delegated to artificial intelligence, while specialists should focus on strategic tasks and oversight. The document also emphasises “quick wins” — projects that deliver tangible results within short timeframes. In addition, it highlights the role of each city within the national settlement system and the importance of coordinating master plans with the investment programmes of major corporations. The master plan of the future should serve as a tool for maintaining public interest and trust by engaging residents in the development of the document.

The resolution also reflects a new approach to the training of local professionals. In particular, it proposes forming an implementation team already at the outset of master plan development — a shift towards the logic of “managing implementation from day one,” without waiting for formal approval of the document.

“The resolution was formulated based on the outcomes of five sessions of the UrbanWay Forum, for which ‘CENTER’ prepared a relevant agenda and ensured the participation of around 30 leading experts from different regions of the country,” noted Sergei Georgievskii, Co-founder, Agency for strategic development "CENTER". “We will submit the document to federal authorities and development institutions. We hope it will help to закрепить in legislation the changes that already define the vector of master planning development and will continue to shape it in the coming years.”

The International Urban Planning Forum UrbanWay took place in Vladivostok on 9–11 October 2025 and became a focal point for everyone shaping the image of contemporary cities. Experts selected the best architectural projects and discussed topics such as engineering solutions in urbanism, transport systems, public space improvement and greening, specialised education, renovation, restoration, and cultural heritage sites. One of the forum’s key thematic tracks was dedicated to master planning.

Photo: UrbanWay Forum press service