Local action group meeting at the Letnjikovac pilot area

Local action group meeting at the Letnjikovac pilot area – a collaborative step towards sustainable urban revitalization

On 27^th September 2024, a significant milestone in the NONA project was achieved through a collaborative field trip and meeting held at the Letnjikovac pilot area in Šabac. Organized by the Institute of Architecture and Urban & Spatial Planning of Serbia (IAUS) and the City authority of Šabac, this event marked a key phase in the development of a draft methodology for mainstreaming green investments into the revitalization of degraded urban areas. This initiative aligns with the overarching goals of the New European Bauhaus on the Danube (NEBoD).

The meeting brought together representatives from key stakeholder groups, including the Centre for professional development, City authority of Šabac with its Department for social activities including: education, culture, sports, children, social and health care and IAUS team members, fostering multidisciplinary dialogue to define Letnjikovac’s future as a sustainable and inclusive urban space.

Key discussion points:

• Sustainable and integrated urban design approach: Emphasis was placed on creating a cohesive urban, architectural, and landscape design, ensuring that facilities and spaces function in harmony. The integration of various institutional areas into a unified whole was seen as crucial for maximizing utility and accessibility, turning Letnjikovac into a functional, interconnected space.

• Community centric development supporting urban governance: Discussions explored how the site could serve as a cultural and community hub. Proposals included hosting major events and festivals and establishing a demonstration garden for schoolchildren to foster environmental awareness. This hands-on initiative aims to make green practices an integral part of early education.

• Enhancing social inclusion: The proposed establishment of a Senior citizen centre was seen as a key addition, promoting social engagement and recreational opportunities for older residents. This aligns with the vision of creating a multi-generational space that fosters community cohesion and inclusivity.

• Stakeholder feedback and engagement: Institutional representatives provided critical feedback on the project’s goals and expected outcomes. Surveys distributed during the meeting, with an option for online responses, ensured comprehensive stakeholder involvement in shaping the pilot area's future development.

• Long term vision and sustainability through integration of green investments in planning: The pilot area is envisioned as a model for sustainable urban development, integrating green investments in planning to promote eco-friendly co-creation practices. This aligns with the NEBoD initiative’s mission of combining environmental sustainability with cultural and social enrichment, further strengthening the pilot site’s role in regional development.

Activities and outcomes:

The day’s agenda included a technical walking tour and site inspection to assess current conditions and document the area’s potential. This visit followed a preliminary case study in June 2024, ensuring that the strategies developed align with both the practical needs and future opportunities of the Letnjikovac pilot area.

The IAUS and City of Šabac teams, together with local stakeholders, will continue refining these plans, advancing the NONA project’s commitment to fostering sustainable, inclusive urban environments in the Danube region.