ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an analysis of recent changes in urban planning practice in Prague, in the context of transition from a totalitarian to a democratic political system and from a command to a market-led economy. Special attention is devoted to the emerging tensions between political goals, planning strategies and market forces. The main tasks for contemporary urban planning and politics in Prague are to keep planning regulations in operation and defend the legitimacy of the planning system; to preserve the spirit of the historical core of the city and reconcile it with new commercial, mainly tourist-oriented, development; to designate areas for new commercial and office development close to the centre, attract foreign investments and stimulate progressive economic activities; to anticipate potential social tensions based on growing polarization, especially in connection with accessibility to housing; and to find a solution to the city transportation system.
