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The purpose of this paper is the evaluation of the degree of sustainable urban development in Poland in terms of spatial management and laws applying to the process.

The study provides an analysis of the key legal bases fundamental to sustainable development. Instruments that can be used to implement development guidelines (strategy, budget, “the study”, local zoning plan), revitalisation processes and to identify barriers to sustainable urban development.

The paper finds a recognition of the main spatial and legal barriers to urban development. The lack of zoning plans in many cities delays new investments. Revitalisation programmes are essential for maintaining a sustainable and stable polycentric structure of cities and towns within regions and across the country as a whole.

Results of analysis describe the main barriers to urban development, while the lack of zoning plans and practical strategies mainly contribute to unsustainable development of cities. Long‐term planning requires more rigorous and coordinated measures on different levels of administration.

The paper provides specialists and students with a new look at sustainable urban development; the latter is assumed to not only be connected with economic, social and environmental spheres, but also with spatial spheres.