Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — International engineering and consulting company Arup, together with Tashkent-based IKS Consulting, has been awarded a contract to develop a comprehensive regional strategy and spatial plans for Tashkent Region.
The project provides for the preparation of plans for four districts and corresponding master plans and is aimed at supporting sustainable and inclusive development of the region, Arup said.
The contract was awarded by the project implementation group under Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Economy and Finance.
The project is part of nationwide efforts to ensure balanced socio-economic development under the Uzbekistan 2030 strategy. It is financed by the World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.
Arup is leading the project jointly with IKS Consulting, combining international experience in spatial planning with local market expertise. The team is working with the Project Coordination Office of the Ministry of Economy and Finance, as well as regional and district authorities.
The project will develop an integrated approach to the spatial development of Tashkent Region that takes local needs and priorities into account. Particular attention will be paid to engagement with local communities.
The approach includes the participation of women, young people and vulnerable groups in shaping future decisions. According to the developers, this will help take the interests of different population groups into account when planning territorial development.
Gustavo Goy-Garcia, Arup’s project director and regional economist for development, said the programme is intended to support Uzbekistan’s transition toward a more integrated approach to regional and urban planning and investment.
He said the project would combine a regional strategy with district development plans and detailed master planning, while engagement with local authorities and residents should provide a practical basis for sustainable growth, development of local expertise and stronger institutional capacity.
The plans are expected to help improve living conditions and reduce territorial disparities, while creating conditions for innovation and attracting new investment.
Areas whose potential is expected to be explored through spatial planning include tourism, major infrastructure, transport and agro-processing. The project will also address reducing the gap between urban and rural areas.
A separate capacity-building programme will focus on strengthening local institutions and transferring the necessary knowledge and skills to the region after the project is completed.
The project also expands Arup’s experience in Uzbekistan and strengthens its expertise in spatial planning and master planning in Central Asia.
