It is important that work undertaken in relation to regional development and planning contribute towards preventing and addressing housing segregation, socio-economic inequality and social exclusion. These are issues which constitute a common challenge – particularly in the cities of the Nordic Region. At the same time, new industrialisation in smaller localities and rural areas requires a clearer and more holistic approach to land-use planning, as well as linkage between local labour markets and housing supply in order to promote sustainable development. Nordic co-operation within regional development and planning should contribute towards creating a level playing field for all, regardless of living environment, identifying common challenges related to the construction of and access to quality housing in the cities and rural areas of the Nordic Region, and promoting solutions that can ensure various alternatives for housing rental in rural areas.