The use of Build-Operate-Transfer types of Public-Private Partnerships for the provision of infrastructures has extended in the last years, especially in Spain. This includes infrastructures located within urban areas. The consequences from an urban planning perspective are however uncertain, considering the concerns that are often related to the private management of infrastructures. This situation leads to the following research question:

Based on the experience in Spanish cities, and particularly in San Sebastian, how should be Build-Operate-Transfer used for the provision of urban infrastructures, considering the benefits and concerns related to the private management of infrastructures?

In order to answer to this question, the present work analyses the experience with BOT contracts in Spanish cities and in San Sebastian in particular. For this purpose, the political, economic, social, environmental, and urban planning effects of the projects are assessed, with a particular focus on the problems that are usually related to PPPs.

The analysis of the experience in Spain shows that BOT projects are present in urban areas in multiple forms of infrastructures, and hence, the effects on the urban landscape and the planning of cities should be considered. In fact, this work concludes that a conscious and ethical use of BOT may provide instruments for urban planners in order to benefit of the advantages provided by the private management of infrastructures, while minimising the possible adverse effects.