Addressing brownfields in development policy: Planning approaches, intervention, and instrumentation in Hungarian strategy making

Abstract

This study utilises text mining techniques to analyse development documents from the decade spanning 2013 to 2023, with a particular focus on strategic interventions related to the revitalisation of brownfield sites at national, capital city, and district levels. The growing emphasis on sustainability and urban regeneration has positioned brownfield sites as crucial resources within the realm of urban policy discussions. Despite the opportunities these sites offer, their sustainable rejuvenation and integration into urban environments present significant challenges. Many Hungarian towns and cities, shaped by a legacy of socialist industrial activity, are characterised by an abundance of brownfields, which are often perceived as obstacles to urban development. However, it is vital to recognise that these areas are not merely relics of the past; they are dynamic entities that evolve in tandem with urban changes, giving rise to contemporary forms of 'greyfields' in various urbanised settings. This research emphasises the necessity of adopting a multifaceted approach to brownfield redevelopment, highlighting the impacts of strategic planning logic, regulatory measures, and incentives on physical renewal efforts. The findings indicate that effective revitalisation cannot be achieved through a single planning paradigm, as both top-down and bottom-up strategies are essential yet insufficient when considered in isolation. Although grassroots planning initiatives are gaining traction in Hungary, their implementation remains in the early stages, as evidenced by the similarities in interventions and tools across different territorial levels, which fall short of adequately addressing brownfield challenges. The study reveals that lower-level decision-makers often find themselves restricted to reactive solutions due to a lack of authority and a strong framework for participatory planning integrated into strategic development processes. The results underscore an urgent need for improved practices that connect top-down and bottom-up approaches, there by fostering long-term effectiveness in brownfield regeneration efforts.