The cantonal structural plan is the key instrument for guiding spatial development and is binding on the authorities. With the 2025 revision, Schwyz is updating this instrument on the basis of broad consultation, whilst responding to new provisions and requirements under federal law.
The focus is on the chapters covering tourism, transport, energy and climate, as well as landfill sites and wastewater disposal. At the same time, other topics covered by the structure plan have been brought up to date. This is relevant for local authorities, developers and planners because the structure plan sets the overarching framework for spatial projects, land-use planning and site selection decisions.
Public consultation with consequences
The adoption of the plan was preceded by a digital public consultation process in which municipalities, districts, neighbouring cantons, political parties, professional associations, organisations and private individuals took part. The canton notes that the vast majority of municipalities support the amendment. Submissions were incorporated where they were deemed compatible with the overall public interest from a spatial planning perspective.
Next stop: Bern
As a next step, the proposal will undergo preliminary consultation by the Cantonal Council’s Commission for Spatial Planning, Environment, Energy and Transport. Once the Cantonal Council has taken note of the proposal, the canton intends to submit the amendment to the Federal Council for approval. Only once this decision has been taken will the amended structural plan become binding on the federal government and neighbouring cantons.
More than a mere formality
The canton’s website illustrates the wide-ranging practical impact of the structure plan. It coordinates settlement, transport, nature, the landscape and other land uses, and serves as a framework for specific projects. In the context of the latest work on the structural plan, the canton also refers to requirements under federal law for example, regarding crop rotation areas and energy planning which further increases the pressure for proper spatial coordination.
