In 2024, the Tallinn Urban Planning Department continued implementing organizational changes that have resulted in a faster and higher-quality processing of detailed plans. The initiation process has been simplified, the register has been updated, and a management dashboard has been introduced, providing a systematic foundation for identifying and addressing bottlenecks.

In 2024, the Tallinn City Government made decisions on 55 detailed plans. Compared to previous years, the number of both initiated and approved plans has increased. Deputy Mayor Madle Lippus noted that the positive impact of these changes is clearly reflected in the statistics. "A significant leap has occurred in the most crucial phase of the process – the approval of detailed plans. Compared to the previous year, the number of approved plans has doubled. This demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that granting building rights does not get delayed by interdepartmental disputes or excessive remarks," said Lippus.

The statistics also highlight the varying levels of development activity across different districts. As expected, activity remains high in the city center, Haabersti, Lasnamäe, and Põhja-Tallinn. While the number of detailed plans processed in Põhja-Tallinn is smaller, many of these plans cover large areas due to the district’s unique characteristics. Planning activity is lower in Pirita, Kristiine, Nõmme, and Mustamäe.

In 2025, the department aims to continue improving processing procedures, enhancing the quality of work, and strengthening communication with clients. The management dashboard will be further developed to monitor deadlines and identify bottlenecks requiring joint discussions or additional intervention. The goal is to ensure compliance with legally mandated deadlines for initiating and approving new plans.

Among last year’s most significant detailed plans were the approval of the Jakob Westholm Gümnasium expansion plan in the city center, the Bekker and Krulli quarter plans in Põhja-Tallinn, and the initiation of the Hobujaama area plan, which envisions a new urban park alongside developments on the current bus parking lot. In terms of improving public spaces, the Kakumäe and Pirita beachfront detailed plans hold particular importance, with implementation of the Pirita plan set to begin in 2025. Additionally, key educational infrastructure projects include the initiation of plans for Kivimäe Basic School and Lepiku Kindergarten, supporting the city’s 15-minute city principles.

The Urban Planning Department is also committed to strengthening partnerships. Last year, customer feedback collection was launched for construction and occupancy permits, and a survey was conducted among detailed plan developers. This year, the department will expand feedback collection efforts, starting with project design conditions. Customer feedback helps identify areas for improvement in work processes, communication, and IT solutions.