The amendment now tabled incorporates an ESP concept approved in June 2026 into the cantonal structure plan. In doing so, the canton aims to develop suitable sites for employment-related uses in a more targeted manner and to establish early planning coordination with local authorities and other stakeholders.
Essentially, the model distinguishes between two types. High-density development hubs are intended to accommodate a high concentration of jobs in locations with good public transport links. Freight- and production-intensive hubs are designed for industry and commerce and are geared towards good connections to the wider road network.
Cantonal sites to be clearly identified
From now on, development hubs of cantonal significance are to be listed directly in the Structural Plan, depending on their stage of planning, and shown on the Structural Plan map at a scale of 1:50,000. Regional sites, on the other hand, remain the responsibility of regional and municipal planning instruments. For landowners, local authorities and project developers, this provides earlier clarity on which business sites are politically desired and at which planning level they are to be secured.
Planning is carried out through agreements
The development of each site is to be undertaken jointly by the host municipality, the canton and other stakeholders. To this end, planning agreements are envisaged, in which objectives and responsibilities are set out. This process is supported by a coordination unit within the Office for Spatial Development, which, according to the canton, assists the local authorities and ensures coordination between the specialist departments.
Public consultation prior to political approval
The documents relating to the amendment to the cantonal structure plan are available for public inspection until 29 January 2027 and can also be viewed online. The procedure is not concluded at this stage. The cantonal structure plan will be adopted by the Cantonal Government, but must subsequently be approved by the Grand Council and the Federal Council. In practical terms, this means that whilst Thurgau intends to define its key economic areas more precisely, the political binding nature of the plan will only take full effect once the next procedural steps have been completed.
