Strengthening stakeholder network for Letnjikovac revitalisation: Expanding collaborative efforts for sustainable development

The co-creation event was held at Letnjikovac, bringing together representatives of two projects—NONA (New gOvernance for New spAces) and AGE+, both of which are actively shaping the future of this area. The meeting facilitated an exchange of insights on project implementation, reaffirming their mutual compatibility in terms of strategic objectives and methodology. A key focus was placed on strengthening collaborative mechanisms to enhance green and climate-friendly urban revitalization of the area, ensure long-term sustainability, and create new functionalities while preserving the site's existing heritage and endogenious potentials.

Expanding the stakeholder network

The co-creation event convened a diverse group of stakeholders, reflecting the broad, interdisciplinary engagement required for the sustainable urban transformation of Letnjikovac. Participants included representatives from the AGE+ project, Tara International Consulting, the City Authority of Šabac, the Department for Education, Culture and Sports, the Center for Social Work "Šabac," the Professional Development Centre, the City Association of Pensioners Šabac, the Mountaineering and Alpinist Club "Čivija" Šabac, and the School of Economics "Stana Milanović". Their shared expertise and perspectives contributed to a dynamic discussion on future development strategies. The meeting reaffirmed the importance of inclusive governance, participatory urbanism, and long-term stakeholder engagement, ensuring that Letnjikovac evolves as a socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable urban space.

Strategic insights and collaborative initiatives

Building on the established cooperation, the co-creation event provided a platform for stakeholders to outline strategic priorities and joint initiatives essential for the long-term development of Letnjikovac. Discussions covered key aspects of urban revitalisation, governance, and investment planning, setting the foundation for future collaborative efforts:

Presentation of the NONA project – The session opened with a detailed presentation of the NONA project, highlighting its strategic approach to integrating green investments into urban regeneration. Participants were introduced to key methodological frameworks, and discussions focused on the results achieved so far within the NONA project, as well as future steps and planned activities.

Presentation of AGE+ initiatives – The discussion explored the AGE+ project’s focus on intergenerational cooperation and its potential alignment with the NONA framework. Letnjikovac was recognised as an ideal location to facilitate social interaction between different age groups, strengthening community ties and fostering a more inclusive urban environment.

GIS platform for Letnjikovac – The newly developed Geographic Information System (GIS) platform was presented as an innovative evidence-based planning tool. The system enables stakeholders to map, analyse, and visualise spatial data, improving transparency and efficiency in urban planning. The GIS platform is expected to optimise land use, streamline investment decision-making, and support municipal authorities in future interventions.

Urban planning challenges and future steps – The discussion emphasised the need for a comprehensive urban planning document, which will establish a regulatory framework for Letnjikovac’s future development. Key topics included urban safety improvements, such as controlled access and surveillance measures, as well as long-term maintenance strategies for public spaces and green areas. Ensuring that these initiatives align with broader sustainability objectives remains a core priority.

Community engagement and awareness – Recognising the value of public participation, stakeholders agreed to initiate an artistic and literary competition. This initiative aims to actively involve local residents through cross-generational collaboration approach, particularly youth and creative professionals, in shaping the design of public spaces, urban furniture, and lighting solutions. By fostering a participatory approach, the project seeks to cultivate a sense of shared responsibility for the area’s long-term development.

Laying the fundations for future development

The meeting reaffirmed a collective commitment to advancing sustainable urban transformation, with Letnjikovac envisioned as a safe, accessible, and dynamic community space supporting knowledge economy development. Stakeholders emphasised the importance of ensuring the project’s long-term viability, recognising the need for continued collaboration and strategic planning. By broadening the stakeholder network and fostering stronger synergies between public, private, and civil society actors, the NONA project continues to establish Letnjikovac as a model for participatory urban development and the integration of green investments.