Think Ukraine presents the study “Preservation of Kyiv’s Historic Area: Construction Moratoriums, Court Practice, and International Experience,” dedicated to one of the most sensitive issues in the development of the capital — preserving the historical urban environment under constant development pressure.
The destruction of historic buildings, the emergence of high-rise construction in the city center, conflicts surrounding new developments, the absence of clear and unified rules for developers, and manipulations involving urban planning documentation — these and many other issues shape Kyiv’s agenda today. How successfully the city manages to balance development with the preservation of its identity will determine not only its architectural character, but also the quality of life for residents, investment attractiveness, and public trust in city authorities.
Based on an analysis of Ukrainian legislation and the practices of European capitals, the study examines the widely discussed idea of introducing a “construction moratorium” as a tool for protecting the city. The authors conclude that such politically driven decisions fail to deliver meaningful results due to the limited powers of local self-government bodies and the lack of effective enforcement mechanisms.
The study was also prepared with consideration of the expert discussion “Does Kyiv Need a Moratorium on Construction in the Historic City Center?”, during which specialists presented different approaches and perspectives on the issue. The article integrates key arguments raised during the discussion, allowing for a more balanced and comprehensive view of the problem.
Instead, the study proposes a comprehensive approach to addressing the issue, including the establishment of clear and mandatory construction regulations, the modernization of urban planning documentation, stronger oversight and accountability mechanisms, and the implementation of tools that have already proven effective in European cities.
To understand why a moratorium alone is not a sufficient solution — and which steps could genuinely change the situation around development in Kyiv — read the full analytical study “Construction Moratoriums in Kyiv: The Illusion of a Solution or a Path Toward Systemic Change.”
