Urban infill development potential in Germany: comparing survey and GIS data

Limiting land take is an important sustainability target. To this end, infill development a primary strategy. implement strategy, policy-makers need reliable knowledge base on potential (IDP), such as brownfields, vacant lots and underused lots. This study presents the results of first comprehensive national survey IDP in Germany. Almost 12% German municipalities were contacted by questionnaire. In contrast to previous studies, also takes into account smaller towns small-scale lots, which would otherwise lead considerable underestimation. Additionally, feasibility shows how IDPs can be identified using geospatial approach. Here, procedure presented that allows identification differentiation between analysing urban morphology nationwide commonly available data. The provide good basis for initial inventory. However, obtain more accurate results, additional specific data required, accessibility currently limited. With improved spatial infrastructure combined with Open Data initiatives, geographical information system (GIS)-based procedures automated detection monitoring could become future. Policy relevance If objectives policy, especially avoidance sprawl, are achieved, then efficient use already developed essential. At strategic level policy development, suitable necessary take. Currently, regular standardised questionnaire surveying effective method (IDP) its large scale. Geospatial approaches help identify potentials, Thus, they have serve heuristic tools local practitioners seeking begin reflecting options. Policy-makers planners should recognise develop it further cooperation scientific community. decision-makers not spared from weighing appropriate density respective context—and has easier under impact current COVID-19 pandemic.