The need for a thorough comprehension and integration of the spatial features of European policies into the planning practice has recently emerged and has been reinforced. The recognition in the Treaty of Lisbon of the territorial cohesion as being the third target of the Policy, combined with the aims of the financial and social cohesion has further strengthened its spatial dimension. The 2014-20 EU Cohesion Policy phase introduced and integrated a place-based approach along with the promotion

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... of spatial governance. In this context, ITI and CLLDs were adopted by EU member states in different territorial units. The present paper investigates the degree of integration of the spatial dimensions of the Cohesion Policy by the member states during that period. What is pursued is an evaluation of the way and the degree of the place-based approach adoption in the frame of the Integrated Territorial Development policy. Thus, each country's spatial dimension of development planning will be assessed within this context. The research is based on a comparative analysis of Member States' key policy documents. The key questions focus on functionality and potential scope, the integration approach, and the utilization of the territorial tools of spatial development. The main findings indicate the decisive role the new tools play in the strengthening of the spatial dimension of cohesion policy along with the need for strengthening governance structures.