Residents of Plovdiv contribute innovative ideas for the neighbourhood regeneration under the GINNGER project.

The GINNGER project is driving innovative solutions for Plovdiv neighbourhood regeneration, empowering residents to contribute their ideas for sustainable urban transformation. Last December, as part of the GINNGER project, the Energy Agency of Plovdiv Association (EAP) led a meeting bringing together citizens in Plovdiv to co-create a more liveable, environmentally-friendly urban space.

Co-Creation Meeting for Neighbourhood Regeneration in Plovdiv

Last December, the Trakia Regional Administration in collaboration with the EAP, the Municipality of Plovdiv, and the Trakia District organised a co-creation meeting focused on co-creating solutions for a sustainable and liveable urban environment. The primary objective was to empower citizens and provide them with the tools and platforms necessary to engage in the transformation of the spaces they inhabit.

Drawing inspiration from successful neighbourhood regeneration projects across Europe, the meeting introduced a range of innovative ideas, including:

• Solar-Powered Solutions: Proposals such as the installation of photovoltaic panels on both public and residential buildings and the integration of solar-powered benches aim to reduce energy bills and minimise environmental impact.
• Green Spaces for All: Suggestions for landscaping shared spaces, school yards, and the creation of community vegetable gardens aimed at strengthening connections between residents while promoting environmentally sustainable practices.
• Smart Mobility and Waste Reduction: Ideas like restricting vehicle access, reducing speed limits, and launching campaigns focused on waste reduction were presented to improve air quality, pedestrian safety, and community cleanliness.

Residents’ Suggestions & Vision for Neighbourhood Regeneration in Plovdiv

In addition to the expert presentations, residents shared their own vision of a regenerated Plovdiv. Specifically, they suggested to:

• Modernise Public Spaces: Citizens proposed the regeneration of neglected areas such as the muddy spot near Blocks 7 and 310 in the A-9 microdistrict, suggesting to transform it into a dynamic, modern space with landscaping and parking facilities.
• Focus on Nature in the City: One resident, a frequent visitor of Lauta Park, recommended the creation of a dendrological collection featuring trees and shrubs. This idea would add both educational value and beauty to the park.
• Increase Community Initiatives: Additional suggestions included organising more neighbourhood clean-up days, improving waste disposal infrastructure, and enhancing the path from Chernorizets Hrabar Secondary School to the main traffic zones.

Next Steps for Co-Creating Neighbourhood Regeneration in Plovdiv

The meeting represented the beginning of an ongoing dialogue, with plans already underway for the next session in February 2025. Residents will continue sharing their ideas and engaging with the #RegeneratingTogether campaign. This initiative aims at increasing participation in the regeneration process by fostering collaboration between residents and local authorities to develop sustainable, energy-efficient solutions for the community.

By placing citizens at the heart of urban regeneration, the GINNGER project is helping Plovdiv to create a future where communities are not only heard but also empowered to shape the urban spaces they live in.

For more information about the pilot city Plovdiv, read here.

Photo credit: Municipality of Plovdiv