Arup appointed to deliver the next generation of spatial plans for Uzbekistan’s Tashkent region

Arup, working with local partner IKS Consulting, has been appointed to develop an integrated regional strategy, four district spatial plans and associated masterplans to support sustainable, inclusive growth across one of Central Asia’s fastest-growing regions.

The commission was awarded by the project implementation unit within the Ministry of Economy and Finance of Uzbekistan. It’s part of a country wide effort to promote balance, social and economic growth supporting the Uzbekistan Vision 2030 and is being funded by the World Bank and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

Arup is leading the assignment with IKS Consulting in Tashkent, combining global spatial-planning expertise with deep local knowledge. The team is working closely with the Ministry’s Project Coordination Office and regional and district authorities to ensure the plans are technically robust, practical, and rooted in local needs and priorities.

Gustavo Goy-Garcia, Regional Development Economist at Arup and Project Manager for the commission, said: “This programme is an important step towards a more integrated approach to regional and urban planning and investment in Uzbekistan representing a shift from legacy style towards a modern spatial planning model that links regional strategy with innovative district plans and detailed masterplanning.

“By working closely with local authorities and communities, we can help create a practical framework for inclusive and sustainable growth, lasting local capability and institutional capacity building.”

Collaborative community engagement will place people at the centre of the process, ensuring that women, young people and vulnerable groups can help shape outcomes.

The plans will support better living conditions, reduce inequalities, foster innovation and attract new investments unlocking opportunities in tourism, major infrastructure, transport and agri-processing, while helping to bridge the urban-rural divide.

A dedicated capacity-building programme will also strengthen local institutions and leave long-term development and skills beyond the commission within the region.

The project builds on Arup’s growing track record in Uzbekistan and strengthens its spatial-planning and masterplanning capabilities across Central Asia.