Policy · Policy

Second Nota and clustered deconcentration

Second Nota 1966 · Netherlands

What it is

The Second Report on Spatial Planning of 1966 responded to rapid post-war growth with the doctrine of 'clustered deconcentration' (gebundelde deconcentratie), steering overspill away from the major cities into nearby concentrated locations rather than allowing unchecked sprawl. It sought to relieve pressure on the Randstad while keeping the Green Heart open and cities distinct. The report set the intellectual groundwork for the growth-centre policy that followed. It marked the high-water mark of confidence in comprehensive national spatial direction.

Why it matters

The Second Nota codified clustered deconcentration as the guiding principle of Dutch urbanisation policy for the following decades.

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