C.H.O.R.U.S. Network
A Good Practice Charter
FOREWORD
As lead-partner of the CHORUS Network and managing authority of the URBAN II Programme in our region, the city of Bastia has actively participated for some years in the implementation of trans-national cooperation programmes.
Bastia, the only one of the 9 French URBAN sites whose heritage development has been approved as eligible, wished to compare its experience with that of other European cities; the opportunity provided by the URBACT Programme inspired it to propose the creation of this thematic network.
CHORUS made it possible for 14 cities of various sizes to work together and to discover that the problems they face are quite similar: refurbishing old city centres, and improving the quality of life in the cities.
The conclusions drawn from the projects that were discussed within the CHORUS network will contribute to future refl ections in the cities. They will be a source of new ideas for solutions to problems experienced in disadvantaged neighbourhoods, and will provide an original approach to economic development.
CHORUS must now respond to major European challenges with its community based grassroots approach.
Jean-Baptiste RAFFALLI Deputy Mayor of Bastia for Heritage This document was prepared by the city of Bastia with the active participation of all the network partners, and summarised by François GUIGUET, architect, thematic expert of the CHORUS network. PREFACE
Three years of work, eight seminars, meetings, documents, case studies, lively debates, exemplary projects... all of this was part of the CHORUS network experience.
The idea of discussing the development of cultural heritage in all its forms, and the impact it has on the development of a city, may have seemed utopian at fi rst, perhaps even diffi cult; but it turned out to be rich in complex and varied teachings.
All of Bastia’s partner cities - Toledo, Graz, Siracusa, Naples, Cosenza, Vila do Conde, Volos, Foggia, Ourense, Anderlecht, Belfast, Gerona and Krakow - played an active part in defi ning the meaning of our work. Before long, in spite of all the diff erences, a group sense had emerged.
It is no doubt true that only an integrated approach that encompasses all the issues can lead to solutions that bring about the harmonious development of a city; but a sectoral study of economic, social and cultural development through heritage development has made it possible to highlight the eff ects.
Beyond all the work that the cities contributed, beyond the policies implemented by each project, the CHORUS network is a group of people. People who are deeply involved in the future of their cities, who are active and available, and who over the past three years have generously contributed time and energy to give life to this network.
To each and every one - many thanks!
Fernande MAESTRACCI Director of Heritage, City of Bastia Coordinator of the CHORUS Network CONTENTS
Pages
Introduction 11
Theme 01/ Inventories and scientifi c documentation: detailed knowledge for better 13 development 14 Theme 02/ Training: a core issue in development 15 Theme 03/ Protection, development and regeneration: a diffi cult balance 17 Theme 04/ Specifi c funding for heritage restoration 18 Theme 05/ A cultural approach to urban regeneration: a new dimension of sustainable development 19 Theme 06/ Heritage and economic development 20 Theme 07/ Heritage and society 21 Theme 08/ Modern architecture as an instrument for heritage development 22 Theme 09/ Industrial heritage - memory and change: a new development tool
Conclusion 23
6
THE BASTIA SEMINAR 25 Opening remarks
1.1 Presentation by the City of Bastia (Jean-François Leandri) : 29 Conversion of the monastery of Sant’Angelo into premises for community projects with a strong social and economic impact 1.2 Presentation by the City of Bastia (Caroline Paoli and Ewa Poli) : 29 The church of St Charles: an innovative presentation with a strong impact on public awareness of restoration 1.3 Presentation by the city of Anderlecht (Didier Van Ingelgem) : 30 Introduction to the city of Anderlecht 1.4 Presentation by the city of Bastia (Jean-François Leandri) : 30 Introduction to the city of Bastia 1.5 Presentation by the city of Belfast (Roisin McDonough) : 31 Introduction to the city of Belfast 1.6 Presentation by the city of Cosenza (Leonardo Acri) : 31 Introduction to the city of Cosenza 1.7 Krakow joined the network in November 2004 32 Introduction to the city of Krakow 1.8 Presentation by the city of Foggia (Gloria Fazia) : 32 Introduction to the city of Foggia 1.9 Presentation by the city of Girona (Joan Pluma Vilanova): 32 Introduction to the city of Girona 1.10 Presentation of the city of Graz (Alexander Ferstl) : 33 Introduction to the city of Graz 1.11 Presentation by the city of Naples (Gaetano Mollura) : 33 Introduction to the city of Naples 1.12 Presentation by the city of Ourense (Jose Ramon Sanchez) : 34 Introduction to the city of Ourense 1.13 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (Sergio Campanella) : 34 Introduction to the city of Siracusa 1.14 Presentation by the city of Toledo (Jose Luis Rubio Rojo) : 35 Introduction to the city of Toledo 1.15 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Manuel Maia Gomes) : 35 Introduction to the city of Vila do Conde 1.16 Presentation of the city of Volos (Vasilis Sgouris) 35 Introduction to the city of Volos
THE TOLEDO SEMINAR Background notes : Training - a core issue in development / Scientifi c approaches 36 and training for heritage activities in the context of integrated schemes
2.1 Presentation by the city of Toledo (Juan Carlos Fernandes Layos) : 39 L’Escuela Taller (pilot school in Toledo) 2.2 Presentation by the city of Bastia (Florence Cagninacci) : 39 Training for heritage jobs in France: higher level programmes 2.3 Presentation by the city of Bastia (Pierre-Pascal Piacentini) : 40 The unique system of «compagnonnage» 2.4 Presentation by the city of Krakow (Natalia Biernat and Halina Rojkowska-Tasak) 41 Revitalization and preservation in Krakow 2.5 Presentation by the city of Bastia (Michel-Edouard Nigaglioni) : 41 The contents of scientifi c and technical inventories 2.6 Presentation by the city of Bastia (Audrey Giuliani) : 42 Research as a tool for heritage development 2.7 Presentation by the city of Toledo (Ignacio Alvarez-Ahedo et Leonardo Blanco) : 42 Monitoring Toledo’s old town, and the data base system 2.8 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (Sergio Campanella) : 43 Management of restoration projects in the old centre of Siracusa 2.9 Presentation by the city of Naples (Giancarlo Ferulano): 43 The complex rehabilitation of a square in the old city centre of Naples 2.10 Presentation by the city of Toledo (Gervasio Fernandez Riol) : 44 The role of the Consortium in the restoration of the old town in Toledo.
7 THE VILA DO CONDE SEMINAR Background notes : Cultural identity as a dimension of urban development 45
3.1 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Miguel Sousa) : 46 Training in urban development in Vila do Conde 3.2 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Paolo Costa Pinto) : 47 Integrated structures in Vila do Conde: the municipal archaeological laboratory 3.3 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Maria Leonor Macedo) : 47 Conversion of the old Casino into the Municipal Youth Centre 3.4 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Miguel Figuereido) : 48 An art restoration business in Vila do Conde 3.5 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Manuel Maia Gomes) : 48 The customs house and shipyard museum: an interpretive centre 3.6 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Manuel Maia Gomes) : 49 The lace museum 3.7 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Manuel Maia Gomes) : 49 Conversion of the old prison into a Centre for science and life (Centre de la science vivante) 3.8 Presentation by the city of Bastia (Véronique Vancoillie) : 50 OPAH in Bastia: specific funding for restoration 3.9 Presentation by the city of Graz (Alexander Ferstl) : 50 The inner-city conservation fund: a tool to boost private investment 3.10 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (Sergio Campanella) : 51 Developing Siracusa’s old town: problems and projects
THE BELFAST SEMINAR Background notes : Heritage and social ties 52
4.1 Presentation by the city of Belfast (Roisin McDonough) : 54 Belfast moves on: letting go of conflicts in a city of many communities 4.2 Presentation by the city of Belfast (Conor Shields): 54 Peace walls: from preventive separation to intercultural expression 4.3 Presentation by the city of Belfast (Moya Hinds): 55 Conway Mill, a social and economic experiment on an old industrial site 4.4 Presentation by the city of Belfast (Conor Shields): 56 The New Belfast Community Arts Initiative - using art to promote reconciliation 4.5 Presentation by the city of Belfast (Kyle Alexander) : 57 Laganside - a large-scale urban regeneration and reconstruction plan 4.6 Presentation by the city of Belfast (Sean Kelly) : 58 The Festival in the Cathedral Quarter 4.7 Presentation by the city of Naples (Maria Federica Palestino) : 58 Monument Month: Naples celebrates its monuments 4.8 Presentation by the city of Cosenza (Leonardo Acri) : 59 The Festival of Invasions 4.9 Presentation by the city of Krakow (Natalia Biernat) : 59 Restoration of the Jewish Quarter in Krakow 4.10 Presentation by the city of Anderlecht (Benoît Stievenart) : 60 The Zinneke Parade: street theatre, identity and heritage 4.11 Presentation by the city of Anderlecht (Benoît Stievenart) : 60 The Maurice Carême Library and its role in fostering social cohesion
THE SIRACUSA SEMINAR Background notes : Heritage - a quality approach to the economic rebirth of inner cities 61
5.1 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (M. Di Guardo) : 64 Operational organization of restoration in Siracusa 5.2 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (Sergio Campanella) : 64 Restoration of an old market and integration of small businesses 5.3 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (M. Capodicasa) : 64 Conversion of the ancient convent and church of San Francesco da Paola 5.4 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (M. Cusmano) : 65 Conversion of the Palazzo Impellizzeri into the Palace of Culture 5.5 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (Sergio Campanella) : 65 Teatro dei Pupi: an long-lived cultural micro-enterprise 5.6 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (Sergio Campanella) : 66 A new micro-business for the restoration of papyri 5.7 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (Sergio Campanella) : 66 Conversion of a derelict inner-city block into an entertainment centre for young people 5.8 Presentation by the city of Anderlecht (Benoît Stievenart) : 67 Conversion of the veterinary school: X-ray of an aborted project 5.9 Presentation by the city of Foggia (Gloria Fazia) : 67 Conversion of the old market into cultural space 5.10 Presentation by the city of Foggia (Gloria Fazia) : 68 Conversion of the church of Santa Chiara into an auditorium 5.11 Presentation by the city of Girona (Joan Pluma Vilanova) : 68 A policy designed to boost the vitality of city-centre retail businesses 5.12 Presentation by the city of Ourense (Susana Calvo Picos) : 69 A successful renewal project: the craftsmen’s street
THE GRAZ SEMINAR Background notes : Urban regeneration, modern architecture and heritage 70 development
6.1 Presentation by the city of Graz (Hansjörg Luser and Gerhard Ablasser) : 72 Integrating traffi c problems into a regeneration policy for the city’s historic centre 6.2 Presentation by the city of Graz (Hansjörg Luser and Gerhard Ablasser) : 73 The Kunsthaus, Mur Island, and the Schlossberg lift; conversion of the old university into a conference centre 6.3 Presentation by the city of Graz (Igor Toichinov) : 73 The Commission for the protection of heritage sites 6.4 Presentation by the city of Graz (Gerhard Ablasser) : 74 Inner city traffi c 6.5 Presentation by the city of Graz : 74 A city-centre shopping mall: integrating a large retail space in an existing block with no damage to the outer shell of the building 6.6 Presentation by the city of Krakow (Halina Rojkowska-Tasak) : 75 The New City district 6.7 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Manuel Maia Gomes) : 75 Modern architecture in ordinary life 6.8 Presentation by the city of Naples (Gaetano Mollura and Ignazio Leone) : 76 Extension of the metro line: a modern project with major structural implications
9 THE VOLOS SEMINAR Background notes : Industrial heritage and its special role in urban regeneration policies 77
7.1 Presentation by the city of Volos (Vilma Hastaoglou et Kostas Adamakis) : 79 The industrial heritage of Volos: history and restoration plans 7.2 Presentation by the city of Volos (Kostas Adamakis) : 79 The urgent need for an inventory of industrial heritage 7.3 Presentation by the city of Volos (Vasilis Sgouris) : 80 Industrial architecture supporting the cultural identity of a city 7.4 Presentation by the city of Volos (Vasilis Sgouris et Apostolos Alpous) : 80 Conversion of the Tsalapatas brick factory into an industrial museum 7.5 Presentation by the city of Volos (Georgios Gangas) : 81 Conversion of a pesticide factory into an energy centre 7.6 Presentation by the city of Volos (Vasilis Sgouris and Apostolos Alpous) : 81 Conversion of a silk factory in Nea Ionia into an industrial museum, an industrial centre, and an administrative and cultural centre 7.7 Presentation by the city of Volos (Iannis Gregoriou and Vasilis Sgouris) : 82 Conversion of a strychnine factory into a workshop for the mentally handicapped 7.8 Presentation by the city of Volos (Georgios Gangas and Vasilis Sgouris) : 82 Conversion of the former Spierer warehouse into a cultural and administrative centre 7.9 Presentation by the city of Volos (Stella Demesticha) : 83 Setting up a network of industrial museums in Greece 7.10 Presentation by the city of Volos (Aegli Dimoglou) : 83 Industrial heritage: an integral part of the archaeology of Greece 7.11 Presentation by the city of Naples (Gaetano Mollura) : 84 Conversion of the industrial estate of Bagnoli 7.12 Presentation by the city of Krakow (Halina Rojkowska-Tasak) : 85 Conversion of the tram depot into a public transport museum: a project with strong social and economic dimensions 7.13 Presentation by the city of Belfast (Paul Harron) : 86 The regeneration of industrial heritage sites
Conclusions 88
10 INTRODUCTION
The work of the CHORUS network between 2004 and 2006 took the form of exchanges between 14 partner cities, based on concrete projects presented by the cities, describing diff erent ways in which the cultural heritage is involved in urban regeneration. The volume of information gathered through this process was considerable, and served as the basis for theoretical and practical work.
The principle of capitalisation and diff usion of exchanges, which is at the heart ofthe URBACT Programme and is the very reason for the existence of the networks, has found concrete expression in the publication of major documents.1 In the present document we have added to and summarised the previous publications and streamlined the presentation. It is intended for all stakeholders in urban regeneration policies, but is also meant to be accessible to a broader readership, to the public at large, including lay citizens interested in the subject matter of our work.
This work, and the discussions within our group, are founded fi rst and foremost on one conviction: heritage is a fragile whole which refl ects our cultures and our identities. It must be treated with care and respect, but must not be seen as inert matter, or indeed as a heavy burden carried by the municipalities that are responsible for it.
Our heritage is a formidable reservoir of cultural and economic energy that we can draw on in every sector of urban development with extraordinary eff ectiveness. It can be used to generate value simply by highlighting its existence; to create activities with a high value added impact; to reveal the deeper identity of an area; to strengthen the social fabric; to reinforce cohesion within groups; to provide space for new activities in a particularly cost- effi cient way, and so forth.
Heritage can have the eff ect of a powerful lever on a given territory, and is therefore valuable in itself and not only as a tool; it is an object of study as well as a motor for development; a revealing factor of historical identity as well as a catalyst of energies for the future.
Nevertheless, its introduction as a factor into the construction and especially the regeneration of cities must be done with tact and technical awareness. In this document, we have tried to summarise some of the suggestions and recommendations that emerged from our discussions, and to organise them according to the themes that structured our own work in the seminars :
- the issue of prior knowledge and documentation; - the question of training, and the wide range of heritage-related jobs; - the balance between protection, development and regeneration; - funding problems; - a cultural approach to urban regeneration; - the role of heritage in economic development; - the role of heritage in social ties; - the role of modern architecture in the development of heritage sites; - the importance of industrial heritage as an expression of memory and as a tool for development.
We hope in this way to contribute to ongoing debate and refl ection on the future of our cities and on the many diff erent paths which we can follow to build them up and renew them harmoniously, making full use of our heritage - both material and immaterial.
1. Three documents were produced before this Charter of Good Practice: a Final Report, the CHORUS Network Project Outlines, and a Promotional Document. 11 Towards an optimal use of heritage in urban regeneration projects
The present document is the culmination and main achievement of the exchanges in which 14 partner cities participated over the 36 months of the Chorus network’s existence,
This «charter» is designed to bring together the principles of good practice that are relevant to the particular issues addressed by CHORUS, i.e. integrating heritage in the dynamics of urban regeneration with a strong potential impact on development.
There are 9 thematic chapters which are presented in summary form in the collection of project outlines (fi le 3); an additional outline summarises the conclusions drawn from our discussions.
The main principle of the Chorus Good Practice Charter is precisely to highlight the strong points of the projects and to present examples that can best illustrate various problems and issues. These examples are described in the project outlines. The chapters are organised as follows :
Theme 01/ Inventory and scientifi c documentation: development based on knowledge
Theme 02/ Training as a core issue in development
Theme 03/ The diffi cult balance between protection, development and regeneration
Theme 04/ Specifi c funding for heritage restoration
Theme 05/ A cultural approach to urban regeneration: a new dimension of sustainable development
Theme 06/ Heritage and economic development
Theme 07/ Heritage and social ties
Theme 08/ Modern architecture as a tool for heritage development
Theme 09/ Industrial heritage - memory and change: a new tool for development
The Good Practice Charter targets - in addition to the participants of the Chorus network, the staff of the URBACT Programme and key personnel of the European Commission - all practitioners in cities of Member States of the European Community who seek guidelines, orientations or advice on town planning involving cultural heritage in all its forms.
For this reason, both theoretical and practical elements are covered, upstream of and related to the various concrete cases presented, in order to enter into the heart of the issues and problems that targeted practitioners are facing, allowing them to benefi t from the results of the experiences of the members of the CHORUS network.
12 Theme 01 Inventory and scientific documentation: development based on knowledge
General introduction All projects designed to develop heritage must be founded on as much prior knowledge as possible. This essential step is regulated by a body of knowledge and a rigorous procedure. Individuals in charge of conservation of cultural heritage work within a particular framework which is rapidly becoming the common norm. However, this preliminary work has to be unanimously recognised and understood to be an obligatory part of the process. Town councillors are called upon to take on the responsibility of making sure that all urban regeneration activities involving historical and cultural heritage are launched only after appropriate measures are taken and procedures completed with regard to historical and archaeological inventories. This inventory work has the added advantage of making a significant impact on people’s awareness of their city’s heritage, and must therefore be shown, published and widely circulated.
Recommendation from the C.H.O.R.U.S. network
Means and methods :
• Involvement of a non-specialist professional (third-level degree, art historian, curator...).
• Methodological cooperation with a relevant State service (in France, the Inventaire général des richesses artistiques de la France), in the form of a contract.
• Cooperation with an institution dealing with heritage conservation and restoration.
• Definition of a precise and rigorous methodology based on a supporting computerised infrastructure.
• Appropriate staff, supplied with premises and equipment.
The inventory process results in expert files (inventory lists) on 4 standard sheets which include: description of objects and buildings, location, iconography, layout, details of preservation and condition, documentation concerning their creation (techniques, dates, names of artists, place of execution, etc.), historical commentary, ownership. It also includes conclusions concerning the importance of the object. The document concludes with recommendations for conservation measures.
Examples - Bastia , Jean-François Leandri : The convent of Sant’Angelo, conversion into premises for community projects - Bastia, Caroline Paoli and Ewa Poli : The church of Saint-Charles: a restoration project with a strong impact on public awareness - Bastia, Michel-Edouard Nigaglioni : The importance of research in restoration policies - Vila do Conde, Paul Costa Pinto : Tools, methods and means for management of archaeological sites in Vila do Conde
Summary Development of the heritage is a strategic tool for economic development and urban regeneration. It must be supported by a scientifically developed inventory which is itself both a tool for knowledge and material to be used in connection with communication of the city’s urban and cultural policies.
13 Theme 02 Training as a core element of development
General introduction Art and heritage jobs participate fully and actively in the economic, cultural and social dynamics of Europe, and are increasingly popular among young people. Schools and institutes that teach restoration skills are opening and highlighting a culture of forgotten occupations. At the same time, the concept of heritage has considerably expanded; today it encompasses - in addition to historical monuments, museum collections, libraries and archives - entire protected complexes and rare professional skills. Heritage-related occupations cover a constantly expanding field of related disciplines and a variety of means of intervention in their support. In this broad and rich context, where training often creates jobs, knowledge of channels and sources of funding becomes essential.
Recommendations from the C.H.O.R.U.S. network
Training has now become one of the major tools providing an alternative to unemployment and a way of optimizing skills. The European Union is strongly committed in this area through the European Social Fund (ESF). In partnership with the Member States, the European Social Fund is one of the main financial instruments for the promotion of employment and the development of human resources. In most countries, a majority of training projects are developed at the regional level, with the exception of those related to higher education. Regional planning therefore relies on funding from the State and from the European Union (40 to 60% ESF). In practice, training is often entrusted to relevant public bodies under the Ministry for Education and Culture, or to other equivalent bodies; elsewhere, they are entrusted to schools or to private training centres recognised by the relevant authorities. Other sources of funding exist, in particular for professionals; these include training insurance funds and special funding for crafts industries. Finally, practically all programmes today, and in particular UPP and URBAN programmes, have a built-in component providing for improvement of human resources through training.
Training options There are four types of training programmes : • Public establishments under the authority of the Ministry for Culture (École du Louvre, CEHE in Chaillot) provide courses in archaeology, art history, epigraphy, anthropology, history of civilisations and of museology, as well as courses in specialised aspects of conservation (archives, archaeology, inventories, historical monuments, museums, scientific, technical and natural heritage), and protection, restoration, adaptation and re-utilisation of historical buildings and towns. Graduates of these courses receive a diploma or an international certificate.
• University programmes that lead to doctorates in museology and heritage, masters degrees in conservation and restoration of cultural goods, higher degrees in conservation and restoration of paintings and sculptures.
• Training institutions and occupational integration agencies such as Training Centres for Apprentices in France and in Germany and Escuelas Taller in Spain.
Many private training centres also provide courses on topics relevant to cultural heritage jobs; their primary mission is to integrate into society individuals who experience serious difficulties with regard to integration.
Examples - Toledo, Juan Carlos Fernandes-Layos : The Escuela Taller (workshop and school) - Bastia, Florence Cagninacci : High level institutes which provide training for heritage related jobs in France - Bastia, Pierre-Pascal Piacentini : The unique institution of «compagnonnage»
Summary The European Union facilitates mobility for students and for instructors. The ESF provides funds for training courses at all levels, as well as specialisation and integration projects. Since 1997, a project has been in existence under the auspices of the Leonardo da Vinci Programme, through which information is gathered concerning training for art related jobs in Europe.This can be accessed at www.moveart.org
14 Theme 03 Protection, development and regeneration : a difficult balance
General introduction At the heart of urban regeneration projects is the will to develop and «enhance» a city’s historical heritage; today this feeling is shared by most local stakeholders who know that in the long run such development has an impact not only on culture and tourism, but also on economics. Heritage restoration and conservation activities have a positive economic effect through tourism and added value; they can also have a social impact, especially through the inclusion of specialised integration agencies. Thus the will to develop and enhance the cultural heritage must not produce excessive or inappropriate restoration, or re- utilization that is not in harmony with the nature of the buildings themselves. Heritage is a fragile mix which needs to be studied and respected.
For these reasons, the members of the CHORUS network have found it necessary to define three levels of action with respect to heritage: protection (maintaining the physical integrity of cultural goods), development (focusing on defining new functions for heritage items), and regeneration (integrating converted heritage into a strategy for urban development).
Recommendations from the C.H.O.R.U.S. network : Protection, development and regeneration : a question of method
1/ Protection : Protection of cultural goods may be defined as any action or actions designed to preserve the physical and patrimonial integrity of the goods in question, setting aside all concerns regarding re-utilization. We are dealing here with conservation and restoration of cultural goods. Protection comprises two main stages: on the one hand, inventory and documentation, and on the other hand, actual preservation and restoration. While inventory and documentation represent the first stage in the development of cultural heritage, preservation and restoration are equally important. The work of preservation and restoration - as that of inventory - must be done in the context of a regulated and controlled process, requiring the participation of skilled specialists :
• The initial documentary research, under the supervision of a technically qualified expert, must be as thorough as possible. • The work of restoration must be carefully planned under the supervision of relevant authorities. • The work of restoration must be supervised by a specialised architect. • The actual work of restoration must be entrusted to authorised and qualified enterprises with well-trained and supervised personnel, that are accepted by the authorities in charge of monitoring works on the heritage. • Implementation must be assessed by the project manager and supervised by the technical authority responsible for preservation and restoration. In Europe, the quantity of cultural heritage requiring protection is often considerable, and it is a good idea to set precise targets. Significant financial assistance is available for such planning at both national and European levels.
There are many examples of good practice in CHORUS network cities, including projects in Toledo (Escuela Taller), Siracusa and Anderlecht (Horta), as well as Graz and Volos, that have involved special skills and institutions.
2/ Development : planning and setting goals in the framework of an integrated approach We can define development as the search for the best re-utilization of cultural goods, such as a programme to convert a monument and assign it to a new use. Development implies first or all protection (stage 1) followed by functional and technical conversion. Such « development» requires careful and thorough planning, which must be based on the results of a preliminary study of functional needs crossed with the results of a scientific inventory and detailed knowledge of the heritage.
15 3/ Regeneration When we speak of «regeneration» we refer to a process involving the heritage in the framework of a broader strategy of urban renewal and revitalization. This means that the overall urban regeneration action must involve a process of urban planning based on the formulation and prioritization of territorial development objectives, followed by a study of local needs, crosscut with a study of the architectural potential of the heritage. This involves studying, through a collegial process, ways of moving from knowledge of the heritage to a programme of architectural development followed by urban regeneration. In this framework, we must consider the balance between the economic, social and strictly patrimonial dimensions in the spirit of the integrated and participatory approach recommended by URBACT. The difficulty - but also the challenge - of such a process is in the search for a balance between the three dimensions : - the patrimonial/heritage dimension (protection) - the functional dimension (development) - the development dimension (regeneration).
Examples - Krakow, Natalia Biernat and Halina Rojkowska-Tasak : Renewal and protection in Poland - Toledo, Ignacio Alvarez-Ahedo : Monitoring of the Old Town in Toledo
Summary Our heritage is both precious and fragile. It needs to be studied before any action is taken to develop it or enhance it. Development is first and foremost a question of goals and methods which need to be adapted to each particular context - this is the challenge of integrated planning.
16 Theme 04 Special funding for regeneration of the heritage
General introduction Regeneration of the local historical heritage is an expensive process requiring financial support. Most European countries have found their own channels for funding of projects involving protected heritage, and there is as yet no unified approach to funding for this type of project.
Recommendations from the C.H.O.R.U.S. network
Funding policies for the regeneration of cultural heritage in Europe vary considerably. each country has its own particular approach based on cultural factors and on its particular policy with regard to heritage. However, there is a definite trend towards unanimity with regard to the importance of citizens’ participation, which is increasingly seen as an essential requirement. Policies designed to promote participation by citizens in the preservation of their cultural heritage are increasingly common. If we want to succeed in our efforts to protect our heritage, it is indeed important to raise awareness among local property owners of the advantages of well-planned development of cultural heritage. It is equally important to continue contributing to a social balance within those historical areas for which renewal is planned. Funding policies can be additional instruments in the struggle against «gentrification» which is so frequently a deplorable result of the renewal of old inner-city areas. The partners in the C.H.O.R.U.S network feel that in all cases it is important to seek to involve private residents, in particular the less affluent working classes, by means of appropriate funding policies.
Examples - Siracusa, Sergio Campanella : Management systems in the restoration of the old centre of Siracusa - Naples, Giancarlo Ferulano : Complex redevelopment of a public square in the old centre of Naples - Toledo, Gervaso Fernandez-Riol : The role of the Consortium in the restoration of the old centre of Toledo - Bastia, Véronique Vancoillie : OPAH in Bastia - specific funding for restoration - Graz, Alexander Ferstl : The inner-city preservation fund: an instrument for stimulating private investment
Summary Development of the heritage of ancient inner-city areas must be supported by crosscutting sources of financial assistance which promote the participation of local residents and involve private owners in the urban regeneration policies of their cities. This type of participation is important for the success of operations and to maintain the local population.
17 Theme 05 A cultural approach to urban regeneration - a new dimension of sustainable development
General introduction Well-planned urban regeneration integrates the local cultural identity as a vital dimension of the heritage. An integrated approach can contribute to generate economic vitality based on an understanding of the values that express the identity of a city or neighbourhood. Such a scheme should be included upstream of all decisions concerning activities in urban heritage areas. This approach has the advantage of producing a sustainable resource that is beneficial to development.
Recommendations from the C.H.O.R.U.S. network
Heritage is a condensed expression of local identity. It tells the history of a place and reveals its cultural layers. It has been noted that knowledge of the history of a city’s heritage contributes to understanding of its cultural identity.
A protocol of knowledge about the social fabric - points of conflict, ways in which different communities have learned to coexist, differences in identity-related sensitivities - should therefore be required for all activities impacting the heritage and its fabric. Moreover, participation by local citizens is a fundamental component in the preparation and the success of any development and enhancement project. All successful projects studied in the context of the CHORUS network’s activities witness to this (Belfast, Cosenza, Naples, etc.).
Guidelines for an identity-based approach may be summarised in the following points, which are necessary ingredients of a sustainable development project :
1-Taking into account identity and culture. 2-The «festive» dimension - festivals and events - must be part of the toolbox of urban regeneration. 3-Local participation is the key to success.
The stages of this approach make up an integrated method :
- Social and historical analysis of the social fabric. - Identification of social groups that make up the population. - Assessment of coexistence and sociability. - Assessment of the social and economic situation. - A participatory scheme to Identify expectations. - Setting up a planning system and a system of project governance.
Examples - Belfast, Moya Hinds : Setting up a mixed economy institution - Conway Mill - Vila do Conde, Manuel Maia Gomes : Establishment of a lace museum as a link between generations and a way of preserving traditional cultural skills - Anderlecht, Benoit Stievenart : The role of a community multimedia library.
Summary « The heritage of a city is more than a collection of movable and immovable goods that have gathered in a particular place over the course of many centuries. It is also a changing story through which generation after generation gives meaning to all that distinguishes this people from the rest of the world, and to all that binds it to the human community.» (R. Souchier, AVEC network). This definition, which reminds us of the importance of historical buildings and the powerful role they play in the definition of local identity, is an excellent summary of the scope covered by the experience of the C.H.O.R.U.S. network.
18 Theme 06 Heritage and economic development
General introduction The historical heritage of a city is today recognised as an actual resource in its own right, in particular in regard to tourism and hence economics. Heritage, however, can also be at the very heart of a broader development project, provided this is in the framework of a rigorously constructed project with an approach that integrates a wide range of additional complementary parameters. In exchanging and discussing projects, the partners in the CHORUS network were able to define the main threads in the design and implementation of an effective economic development project.
Recommendations from the C.H.O.R.U.S. network
The usage value of heritage is one of its assets The historical heritage has a real usage value which is often re-discovered following a period of neglect; it is based on the quality of the buildings, their often unusual dimensions, their very position at the heart of the urban landscape. They can be grouped into several «capability» categories according to their original purpose :
• Monastic buildings and places of worship • Palaces and civil buildings • Buildings belonging to the industrial heritage.
Image building and value building The latter is considerably higher than the functional value linked with the total surface of the building. Value also depends on the uniqueness of the building, on any unusual or exceptional features in may have, as well as on the urban qualification brought about by its presence after restoration.
The direct economic impact depends first on the percentage of expenses on works which affect the fabric of the enterprises located on the site.
The indirect economic impact concerns by-products in the areas of synergy, demand for products, and job opportunities resulting from the creation of a new structure or the development of new activities.
Principles underlying an appropriate economic approach to enhancement and development projects : There are precise methodological principles which need to be applied, and which can be summarised in the following work priorities : • Start from a request for the development of the heritage • Meet the overall requirements of integrated planning • Design an integrated cultural system • Choose target-areas with a strong identity • Encourage projects that are doing well and find themselves in favourable contextual conditions • Check that the relevant area is the appropriate scale for project implementation • Go beyond the project phase to the «product» phase.
Examples - Siracusa, Sergio Campanella: Cultural micro-businesses in Siracusa (the Pupi theatre, the papyrus restoration workshop, etc.) - Ourense, Susana Calvo : Development of a craftsmen’s street - Girona, Joan Pluma Vilanova: Revitalising retail business in the inner-city - Belfast, Kyle Alexander: The economic revival of Belfast (the Laganside area of regeneration).
Summary The development of an economic project based on the desire to preserve the heritage is a complex undertaking which must not be improvised. The experiences of the members of the CHORUS network summarised here have led to the publication of a methodological handbook which is summarised above.
19 Theme 07 Cultural heritage and social ties
General introduction We recognise the natural capacity of a city’s historical heritage to foster in the local population a feeling of belonging to the neighbourhood, but also its traditional capacity to be a genuine instrument of social desegregation. However, the balance is often fragile. At the conclusion of a process of redevelopment in an historical neighbourhood, there is always the danger of creating economic and cultural segregation through the process known as «gentrification» by which the original inhabitants are evicted as a result of the resulting increase in the value of real estate. In order to maintain the earlier level of social cohesion, the project must therefore be founded on a preliminary analysis of the social fabric and of the rules of social coexistence or segregation regulating the neighbourhood; only then can the project be designed through a pro-active process resulting from a truly integrated scheme.
Recommendations from the C.H.O.R.U.S. network
Identity assessment : the first stage of knowledge of the social fabric and its relationship to the surrounding buildings We are used to analysing the social identity of a neighbourhood only in extreme cases of disintegration of social ties (we search for a way out of a crisis, ways of tackling explosive situations in suburban areas, etc.), occasionally in situations of moderate difficulty, and practically never in situations described as «normal» where the need for regeneration does not arise out of existing conflicts. However, regeneration of the urban fabric always has major implications at the social level, and more generally in regard to identity, not only when there are unresolved conflicts.
The example of Belfast, which was studied in the framework of our seminars, highlighted the way space can be «marked» by influences, feelings of ethnic belonging, sovereignty, and ultimately by all sorts of projections of identity conflicts. At times, public space can even be «disputed». This may be an extreme case; nevertheless, it has a great deal to teach us about other, more moderate, situations.
A cartography of identity data allows us to identify cohesion points and conflict points, to match them to urban and heritage features, and to integrate them into the planning process. Such an approach is necessarily participatory and is particularly consistent with the «integrated approach» recommended by URBACT networks.
Rebuilding a space that is linked with local identity without jeopardising cohesion can only happen with local participation. Such a process results from a three-pronged participatory approach : - an inclusion scheme that takes into account the diversity of local groups, recognising and respecting their differences; - an involvement scheme that integrates the energies of each group into the global dynamic of the project; - a regulatory scheme that takes into account current and future modes of coexistence.
Implementation of a global planning scheme must focus on the goal of preserving the balance of identities. The concept of a plan is essential because it subordinates the nature and the scope of the project to the definition of accepted social and cultural goals and of objectives linked with economic development and conservation of the heritage. It must be recognised that such a scheme is based on the deliberate will to check the natural tendency toward gentrification and the hegemony of the free market.
Integrating festivals and events as an additional instrument to affirm the identities of social groups As we have seen, in Belfast particularly, festivals and events can become an integral part of the operational toolbox we use to help a city or a neighbourhood rebuild its identity. Less extreme cases were also presented.
Examples - Naples, Maria-Federica Palestino: May: celebrating the city’s monuments - Vila do Conde, Manuel Maia Gomes: The festival of the carpet of flowers - Cosenza, Leonardo Acri: The festival of the invasions of Cosenza These examples combine cultural and heritage values in exemplary fashion and contribute to the preservation of social cohesion.
Summary The urban heritage is a channel for values linked with identity and social cohesion. Regeneration can endanger a fragile equilibrium. It is essential to have an in-depth understanding of the social and cultural dimensions before undertaking any interventions. Rules for the participation of local population groups correspond to a particular process. Planning must be subservient to powerful and coherent social and cultural aims and to the implementation of instruments which will check the natural tendencies of the market towards gentrification.
20 Theme 08 Modern architecture as a tool for heritage development
General introduction The historical heritage of a city is often viewed as precious and antinomic to contemporary architecture. However, a properly implemented conservation policy can be strengthened by a bold policy for creative architecture : - a modern counterpoint to historical architecture can strengthen its impact on tourism; - an architectural work of high quality can reveal aspects of the deeper identity of a city which may have been previously neglected; - underground parking can unblock the urban system and open up the space around monuments.
However, the process leading up to the creation of relevant contemporary works must be organised; monitoring and control of the process are also essential in order to achieve quality architecture.
Recommendations from the C.H.O.R.U.S. network
Stages of a method for the integration of modern architecture in historical inner-city areas : • Identify, by means of analysis, the identity boundaries of the intervention site ; • Document the history of the site, by means of an inventory ; • Highlight the strengths and the weaknesses of the urban fabric ; • Organise a global planning process for projects impacting the old fabric ; • Define a system for the protection and safeguard of parts affected by the heritage development plan. Develop relevant contents for the plan : • Define operational and symbolic development goals. • Identify functional needs and build the identity of structures. • Design the project on a scale that is compatible with the urban fabric. • Organise funding. • Set up an operational framework (coordination, steering, management, etc.) • Issue a call for tenders for project management, with assistance from experts. Various types of architectural projects can be considered : - 1 : a blatantly symbolic structure that will be a reference point and will redefine the city in a major way ; - 2 : a scattering of high quality architectural projects of a more ordinary kind, integrated but not imitative ; - 3 : controlled variations on an architectural theme that is identified as expressing the identity of the site.
An integrated approach would favour the first two solutions. These were identified as particularly relevant because they are more focused on developing and enhancing the historical heritage and more capable of revealing the identity of the city. These two approaches are illustrated in particular by the following examples presented by members of the C.H.O.R.U.S. network : - Type 1 : the Kunsthaus in Graz, and the overall architectural renewal undertaken in the framework of the city’s selection as Europe’s capital of culture for 2003. - Type 2 : the regeneration of the inner city in Vila do Conde, and architectural projects linked with the extension of the subway system in Naples.
The integrated approach as applied to modern architecture emerges from reflection and concrete experience alike, indicating the need to take into account the cultural, economic and social factors which make up the context of the project. It stands as a protective methodological barrier against conflicts between public and private interests, and as a guarantee of an architecture that is relevant and gentle, and yet powerfully expressive.
Examples The following examples are particularly illustrative : - Graz, Hansjorg Luser and Gerhard Ablasser: The policy for creative architecture of the city of Graz affirms the identity of the city without encroaching on the integrity of the city’s heritage; - Naples, Ignazio Leone and Gaetano Mollura: The project for the extension of the metro system as an instrument for the renewal of poorer neighbourhoods in Naples; - Vila do Conde, Manuel Maia Gomes: A policy for ordinary modern architecture.
Summary Contemporary architecture can improve the ways in which we perceive the historical urban fabric. However, it must be used following careful study of the patrimonial identity of the urban fabric, and must grow out of an integrated process and consultations with architects assisted by qualified experts. Some European projects are built into integrated schemes, and raise hopes of an alternative to regulations currently in effect in some urban centres.
21 Theme 09 The industrial heritage - memories and changes: a new tool for development
General introduction Industrial heritage has today become part and parcel of our heritage, and is listed alongside historical and cultural heritage. Frequently industrial heritage expresses a determining portion of the identity of the working world of a particular community, as well as being a reminder of a particularly prosperous moment in the history of the city’s development. In addition, because of the size of the areas involved and because of their urban impact, these buildings are a formidable development tool that can be used in planning urban renewal. Their scale requires a somewhat different approach from that which is used to convert less complex buildings. Nevertheless, because of their apparent lack of fragility and because of the appetites they awaken, these buildings can sometimes be targeted for unsavoury and even brutal activities. Their protection must be regulated by specific rules, as is the case for all other heritage items.
Recommendations from the C.H.O.R.U.S. network
Specific cultural content Identity-linked features in an industrial site are always powerful and contradictory. They bring to the surface positive attachments linked with entire lives dedicated to the universe of work and to a particular enterprise; but they also have connotations that are tainted by feelings of failure and even abandonment. Cultural aspects attached to these sites must always be taken into account, beyond the guiding principles of a necessary process of change. Much can be learned by studying the company’s archives and the city archives, but also be gathering information from those who use the site; all of this knowledge can significantly enrich the process of regeneration. The architectural features of an industrial site are often powerful. A precise inventory of these features must be made to discern which elements are to be preserved. Specialist historians, as well as institutions, must be included in the partnership around the project. The urban features are decisive. Every industrial site has a very particular relationship with its urban environment. Often, it defines an enclave that has huge potential, and the tools of urban planning should be brought into play, together with those of architecture.
Specific operational aspects : It is obvious that development projects must be on the same scale as the influence of the site. Structurally, the following steps need to be followed :
• Design a project with a strong identity (the site should not be divided up into lots allocated to various purposes as this would reduce the impact of the whole). • Prioritize objectives such as conservation, site coordination, economic development and/or urban development. • Set up a group of partners comprising, in addition to local policy-makers, specialists in industrial history, experts in inventories of industrial heritage sites, and representatives of the staff working on the site at the time of project implementation. • Entrust implementation of the project to specialised contractors, who will take responsibility for the results, and develop an urban scheme that will include both architectural and economic development. Adopt a form of project governance that will promote an integrated approach.
Examples - Volos, Vasilis Sgouris: The policy for conversion and development of industrial heritage sites in Volos. - Naples, Gaetano Mollura: Conversion of the industrial site of Bagnoli - Krakow, Halina Rojkowska-Tasak: Installing a transport museum in the old tram depot. - Belfast, Paul Harron : The regeneration of the Belfast Gasworks site
Summary The industrial heritage is just as fragile as the historical heritage. It must be viewed as the focus and centre-piece of a development project, affecting cultural and identity dimensions as well as economic aspects. Because of their size, industrial heritage sites can provide the space for highly effective projects.
22 CONCLUSIONS
The historic heritage of cities plays an increasingly important role in our cultures; it refl ects our identity, it moulds the landscape of our ancient city centres. However, the use we can make of it in the framework of urban regeneration projects has often been under-estimated. In the course of its activities, the CHORUS network has attempted to highlight the diff erent ways in which it has been reclaimed by the modern world, from the strict regulations that are enforced to ensure its protection, to its development and allocation to modern functions and its role in regeneration. Its economic value has been highlighted as well as its importance in maintaining social cohesion within our cities.
The conclusions drawn by the network can be summarised as follows :
- 1/ Development of cultural goods is conditioned by prior knowledge of their history and of the functional processes that are necessary for their restoration.
- 2/ Heritage-related jobs are a guarantee that projects involving the heritage will be appropriate; they also represent future opportunities for young people to whom a wide range of training courses is available.
- 3/ Maintaining a balance between three main stages will guarantee the success of the operation : protection of the heritage goods, their development through appropriate use, their full implication in the overall strategy of urban regeneration.
- 4/ Funding of rehabilitation projects is always complex; it requires true expertise as well as strong political will; it is a guarantee of the commitment of private owners.
- 5/ A cultural approach to urban regeneration projects is essential, and must take a strong stand againstall standardization of ancient city centres.
- 6/ The heritage has an important role to play in economic training in regard to sustainable development; however, this approach needs to be part of a carefully researched process.
- 7/ The heritage plays a maintenance role with regard to social ties, and in some cases can be instrumental in restoring cohesion.
- 8/ Modern architecture can be instrumental in developing and enhancing the heritage, provided it is strongly expressive and uncompromising. It can be eff ective both through strong symbolic gestures and inan ordinary daily-life approach.
- 9/ The industrial heritage is part and parcel of our heritage in its own right; it must be conserved with the same care as ancient buildings with historical value. Because of their size and fl exibility, industrial sites are particularly valuable and can be specially eff ective in urban redevelopment schemes.
Striking examples were presented during network exchanges : - Prior knowledge was illustrated in particular by the cities of Bastia, Siracusa, Naples, Vila do Conde and Krakow. - Training programmes were illustrated by Toledo and Bastia, as well as Anderlecht. - The balance between protection, development and regeneration was illustrated by Toledo, Krakow and Anderlecht. - Diffi culties in the area of funding were illustrated by Bastia, Graz, and Siracusa - The cultural approach was illustrated by Vila do Conde, Cosenza, and Foggia, as well as Anderlecht and Naples. - The commercial approach was illustrated by Siracusa, Belfast, Girona and Ourense. - The importance of social ties was illustrated by Belfast, Cosenza, Vila do Conde and Naples. - The role of modern architecture was illustrated by Graz and Naples, as well as Vila do Conde. - The importance of the industrial heritage was illustrated by Volos, Belfast, Naples and Krakow.
Cultural heritage, which includes not only our architectural heritage but also, more broadly, our «identity heritage», clearly has a value that goes well beyond the decorative. It is truly an active agent in urban regeneration projects, with an impact on the economic, social and identity levels.
CHORUS has attempted to highlight some of concrete aspects and to formulate good practice rules. The network members are committed to seeing that these rules are implemented in concrete and lasting ways through «integrated schemes» such as those recommended by URBACT.
23 EXAMPLES AND PROJECTS PRESENTED AT SEMINARS SUMMARIES
CONTENT AND INTRODUCTION
A/ LIST OF C.H.O.R.U.S. PROJECTS
The examples presented below were the raw material for the work of the CHORUS network. They were presented by the partners at the seminars. In general they deal with the seminar themes and with one or more project outlines as indicated in the descriptions. The topics of the project outlines are listed below :
TOPIC 01 (Bastia Seminar) Preliminary inventories and documentation: thorough knowledge for better development
TOPIC 02 (Toledo Seminar) Training - the core issue in development
TOPIC 03 (Toledo Seminar) Protection, development and regeneration: a diffi cult balance
TOPIC 04 (Bastia Seminar) Funding of heritage regeneration projects
TOPIC 05 (Vila do Conde Seminar) A cultural approach to urban regeneration: a new dimension of sustainable development
TOPIC 06 (Siracusa Seminar) Heritage and economic development
TOPIC 07 (Belfast Seminar) Heritage and social ties
TOPIC 08 (Graz Seminar) Modern architecture as an instrument for heritage development
TOPIC 09 (Volos Seminar) The industrial heritage - memory and change: a new instrument for development
TOPIC 10 (Naples Seminar) The C.H.O.R.U.S. Charter of Good Practice for an optimal use of heritage in urban regeneration
24 THE BASTIA SEMINAR 4-5 JUNE 2004
THEME 01 : PRELIMINARY INVENTORIES AND DOCUMENTATION : DETAILED KNOWLEDGE FOR BETTER DEVELOPMENT
Topics : 1.1 Launch of the C.H.O.R.U.S. network 1.2 Preliminary inventories and documentation: detailed knowledge for better development
1.1 Launch of the C.H.O.R.U.S. network
The fi rst seminar of the CHORUS network - an exchange network created under the auspices of the URBACT Programme - was organised by its lead partner, the city of Bastia. The participants focused on a new and original issue: the development of a city’s cultural heritage viewed as a regenerating and qualifying urban development action.
1.1.1 Cities harness their URBAN experience to optimize capitalisation of European approaches to urban regeneration
Capitalisation of experiences within the CHORUS network will rely on development strategies implemented by 13 European cities. In addition to the lead partner, Bastia, the following cities are members of the network: Anderlecht (Belgium), Belfast (Northern Ireland), Foggia (Italy), Girona (Spain) (invited as observer), Graz (Austria), Naples (Italy), Orense (Spain), Siracusa (Italy), Toledo (Spain), Vila do Conde (Portugal), and Volos (Greece). At this initial start-up meeting, the partners presented their cities and described each city’s involvement in various European programmes that provide funding for urban development. Participants also discussed procedures for exchanging experiences among the CHORUS cities in order to give concrete expression to what appears to be the will of the group, that is :
- to facilitate the exchange of experiences and knowledge acquired in the context of UPP and URBAN Programmes ; - to promote the production of common strategies for sustainable development ; - to work towards the creation of a European observatory of heritage policies.
1.1.2 Heritage as an innovative tool for urban regeneration and organization
Most of the themes addressed by URBACT exchange networks have been linked with the broad issues of economic action, social cohesion, urban development and citizens’ participation. The CHORUS network based its refl ections on similar topics and decided to combine them and develop at the same time an approach that is unique within URBACT, by integrating heritage as a qualifying factor in urban regeneration and development activities. The CHORUS network cities are coordinated by a lead partner, the city of Bastia, the only French city whose heritage has been recognised as eligible for the URBAN Programme. All the partners are representatives of cities that have an outstanding local heritage, and by the same token, a specifi c cultural identity. The CHORUS group hopes to become an exchange platform that will be of service not only to network members, but to anyone at local or European levels who shares the same concerns about the future of our cities. Based on the individual experiences of its members, the CHORUS network intends to develop a new «charter» specialising in urban regeneration which can be used well beyond the framework of the URBACT Programme. Having defi ned these concrete objectives, the CHORUS network set out to refl ect and exchange ideas on approaches that are most likely to promote the integration of heritage and cultural parameters in European economic and social cohesion policies.
25 1.1.3 First meeting: defining exchange methods most likely to promote the objectives set by the network
During the three years of its existence, the CHORUS network developed four methodological approaches which constitute in themselves major goals to be achieved. They are : - Learning about each other’s experiences; - Increasing our knowledge and know-how; - Affirming our heritage as a major asset for urban development; - Creating a network with a permanent structure.
From the start, the CHORUS network set itself the goal of creating an exchange method that would optimize capitalisation of its members’ experiences. The idea was to develop the best possible conditions for serious reflection on the role of heritage in urban development, and to increase awareness at the local and European levels of the «value added» to a city by its cultural heritage. Heritage is often associated with high costs for maintenance, rehabilitation, development and so forth, all of which require expensive highly qualified skilled workers; as a result there is a tendency among elected representatives and other local decision-makers to relegate heritage issues to the rank of secondary concerns. Over the past three years, the CHORUS network has therefore had to prove that heritage can be an investment and an effective instrument at the service of the regeneration of our cities.
1.2 Development based on knowledge : Inventories are an essential prerequisite (example of the public heritage of Bastia)
• Inventories - an essential prerequisite for development projects
The decision to use the public heritage in the process of urban regeneration is a political choice. In practice, this implies first of all the need to produce an inventory that will list, document and assess all available heritage items. Only a scientific, rigorous and thorough inventory can lead to optimum utilization and development of artistic and historic goods. The inventory in Bastia includes documentary research in archives and a systematic photographic campaign. The results have been beyond all initial expectations, as the findings show that the heritage has greatly contributed to the city’s ressources :
- «Strong points» of the local heritage were identified, resulting in better management. The inventory provided the city with a detailed scientific image of its artistic and historic heritage; the city was then able to set priorities, especially with regard to the urgency of restoration work. The inventory also contributed to the development of schemes for conservation and protection, in particular with regard to security measures for buildings and other items, in an effort to protect them and insure them against theft. - The inventory made it possible to determine possible ways of developing and enhancing the heritage (improving lighting in churches, for example, to improve the visibility of paintings and sculptures; setting up open show-cases in sacristies; preparing and printing brochures for visitors, etc.). - The huge volume of information that was gathered in the field and in archives is now enriching our dynamic publications policy, and is diffused to the public at large. - The results of the inventory are helpful in developing thematic discovery itineraries, and enriching the presentations of tour guides. - These results make it possible to organise short-term exhibitions and special events, in particular on Heritage Days (thematic exhibitions, lectures, guided tours, itineraries, and so forth) - Finally, the documentation that was gathered helps us to respond to the many requests for information that we receive from members of the media as they prepare articles or other reports on the city. The inventory has thus contributed to develop a new and improved image of Bastia in the media.
26 • Human resources and methodology
Only a qualified individual with a third level degree in art history can create an inventory, whether of moveable or of architectural items. There is no alternative, because the person responsible for the inventory must be able to appraise and give an expert opinion on every kind of art work. He or she must have a thorough knowledge of the technical language, be able to identify materials and styles, suggest attributions and dates. In 1998, the city hired an art historian on a full time basis. Coordination and logistics of the various activities (field surveys, documentation in archives, photographic campaigns) is handled by a municipal service which was established in 1997: the Direction du Patrimoine. For practical reasons and to ensure accuracy, the inventory in Bastia is conducted in accordance with norms that are applied throughout France. The city has adopted a methodology that was developed by a State service in the Ministry of Culture : the Inventaire Général des Monuments et des Richesses Artistiques de la France.
The Inventaire Général des Monuments et des Richesses Artistiques de la France is a research and documentation service created in 1964. The service has developed a scientific method which is applied throughout the nation for its surveys. The service has a decentralised structure with permanent teams assigned to each region in France. Since it was created, it has produced more than 130 000 files and more than 2 000 000 photographs, dealing, among other things, with architecture, paintings, sculpture, furniture, secular and religious objects, etc. Using computers and new technologies for images, the Inventaire Général des Monuments et des Richesses Artistiques de la France has built two national data bases which can be accessed on the internet.
Their goal is to gather all available information on the French heritage (the MERIMEE system was used for architecture, and the PALISSY system for moveable objects). According to information provided by the Ministry for Culture, in 35 years 25% of the French territory has been surveyed. Such an undertaking is necessarily a long-term proposition, and it is estimated that the inventory of France’s heritage will be completed approximately one and a half centuries after the establishment of the service. In Corsica the regional centre of the General Inventory is located in the city of Ajaccio. During the coming years, its activities will focus on the heritage of rural communities; this is a long-term project, since there are more than 350 local authorities on the island. The inventory of the heritage of the city of Bastia was not due to take place for many years. An agreement was signed in 1998 between the city of Bastia and the Regional Service of the General Inventory. The agreement stipulates that the inventory produced by the city must comply with the norms that have been established and formalized by the Inventaire Général des Monuments et des Richesses Artistiques de la France. The inventory of Bastia’s moveable heritage must therefore take place using the same appraisal files that are used at the national level. All information will ultimately be entered in the PALISSY national data base for moveable items.
Appraisal files, known as inventory schedules for moveable items, comprise four pages each with standard fields. On each schedule are recorded, in accordance with national codes, the results of the assessment of an item (or of a series of identical items) as well as the documentary information pertaining to the item: precise designation, exact location, structure of the object, materials and techniques used in its production, decorations and iconographic representations, dimensions of the item, state of conservation, inscriptions, hallmarks and stamps, identification of the artist, place of execution, place of origin (in cases where an item has been moved), date, historical commentary (summarizing information obtained from archives and bibliographies), legal situation, significance, etc.
27 • Concrete achievements
The inventory of moveable heritage items in Bastia is taking place along thematic lines. The study of jewellery and gold and silver wares, and that of church paintings, have been completed. Inventory schedules contain raw data which is not easily understood by non-specialists. In order to be more concrete, and to make the results more widely available, the city decided to produce two series of publications intended for the public at large (i.e. people who live in the neighbourhoods, tourists, school children, anyone interested in the arts).
Considerable effort was invested in the form and content of these publications :
- The technical content of the texts was studied with care to make sure that it was rigorously correct as well as clear and easy to understand.
- The appearance of the books was designed to be original and attractive. Professional graphic designers were brought in and they have worked to high standards of editorial production, with an approach that is both refined and creative.
The first series presents elements of the heritage grouped according to themes. Each book is an illustrated catalogue where commentaries reproduce the technical information contained in the schedules together with clear and simple explanations. The second series presents heritage items grouped by building. Each booklet deals with a particular church and gives a guided tour, a historical presentation of the building and an analysis of the different works of art that can be viewed inside.
The information contained in the booklets has been summarised and published in the form of brochures and leaflets that are available free of charge to visitors in the buildings. Finally, all of the information obtained through this inventory and documentation project has resulted in the publication of a very detailed cultural and historical guidebook for tourists which suggests several itineraries through the city. The large volume of information collected in a broad range of artistic and historic areas has provided the city with the means to organise a policy for brief and temporary events. Thus, every year the Direction du Patrimoine organises a thematic exhibition during the European heritage days.
• Use of the heritage as a tool for development
Unlike many other districts in Corsica, Bastia has no famous beaches. The city’s main tourist attraction lies in the physical traces left behind by history. Bastia was the administrative capital of the island throughout the baroque period, and it is for this reason that the city has the richest moveable and architectural heritage in the region. In recent years, we have realised that Bastia’s uniqueness at the regional level is linked precisely with this impressive heritage which is both qualitatively and quantitatively remarkable. Having come to this understanding and based on this new awareness, the city looked for ways to use its heritage that would contribute to the development of its historic inner-city. Large parts of Bastia’s old town are dilapidated; the people who have gathered here have little economic power and are often of immigrant origin; their young are familiar with the problems of academic failure and unemployment. In the framework of a policy for the development of this type of neighbourhood, good management of public heritage buildings can clearly be seen to be a vital contribution as a way of improving the overall quality of the environment. Good management of moveable heritage goods, on the other hand, does not at first sight appear essential; and yet, it too turns out to have an indirect impact on the population. Of course, it involves a strategy of sustainable development with middle and long term goals, the effects of which are indirect and difficult to quantify. Heritage, both architectural and moveable, when it is well known and understood, can make a powerful contribution to the affirmation of a strong cultural identity linked with a particular place. It improves and strengthens the image of a neighbourhood and rebuilds interest and motivation, and thereby contributes to improve the overall context of life. When the people who live in a neighbourhood come to know and understand the local heritage more fully they see the place in a new way, even if their geographic origins are diverse, and this can become an important factor in building social cohesion. Heritage development produces a fascination that can revitalize the local economy. It can lead to a new interest in cultural tourism which, by its very nature, is not seasonal. It promotes production and sales of by-products and engenders side effects that have an impact in particular on small retail businesses. In all of these ways, heritage development contributes to the physical regeneration of the urban fabric.
For all of these reasons, Bastia believes that heritage is one of the driving forces capable of contributing to the solution of problems that impact on the quality of life in certain distressed neighbourhoods. Through projects involving the heritage, the city has developed its old neighbourhoods; today the achievements are there for all to see, and the image of the whole city of Bastia has improved as a result.
28 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BASTIA SEMINAR
1.1 Presentation by the city of Bastia (Jean-François Leandri) : Conversion of the monastery of Sant’Angelo into premises for community projects with a strong social and economic impact
When it was put up for sale by the army, the city decided to purchase this historic monument - an ancient baroque monastery built in the 18th century and occupied initially by Franciscans and later, in the 19th century, by the army. The building, unoccupied since the 1960s, is located in a distressed neighbourhood with a population consisting largely of immigrants. The monastery is too dilapidated to be restored and only the front façade and the old cloisters have been preserved.
Objectives To develop community projects and associations. To add a new tool to the city’s cultural network to promote diffusion and creativity. To integrate into a distressed neighbourhood a major public structure capable of boosting the vitality of the area.
Method and results Total cost of the operation: 934 535 € The Centre for Community Projects provides premises for artistic, cultural and scientific activities, the festival of Italian films, etc. There is a small theatre (80 seats) and the courtyard is used as an open-air theatre. The neighbourhood has greatly benefited from the conversion of the monastery and the vitality it has brought: new cultural retail businesses and leisure activities - as well as a more positive sense of identity.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BASTIA SEMINAR
1.2 Presentation by the city of Bastia (Caroline Paoli and Ewa Poli) : The Church of Saint Charles: an innovative presentation with a strong impact on public awareness of restoration
The church of Saint Charles Borromeo, the only Jesuit church in Bastia, is located at the heart of the old town, in the area that is most frequented by tourists; it is an important baroque monument.
Objectives The building was derelict but had considerable potential as heritage, and deserved to be presented to the public in a way that would bring out and enhance its significance and raise people’s awareness of the need for an enhancement and development programme.
Method and results The method that was developed consisted in finding a way to present the entire monastic structure through the walls of the building, so as to create an urban scenography in a neighbourhood that is derelict but much visited. Each of the internal chapels of the church was presented as a thematic sequence in the exhibition :
- the choir: « Presentation of restored paintings » - the chapel of the Blessed Sacrament : « before-and-after the restoration» - St Anne’s chapel : « the vocabulary of architecture » …
An educational programme with a strong focus on cultural activities was developed on the topic of architectural themes as an inspiration for modern creation. Moveable objects were restored following this presentation (5 paintings and a processional statue). This project had a strong impact on the public at large and on elected representatives and has made it possible to consider refurbishing the building.
29 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BASTIA SEMINAR
1.3 Presentation by the city of Anderlecht (Didier Van Ingelgem) An introduction to the city of Anderlecht
Anderlecht has a population of 99 000 inhabitants and an area of 1 784 ha (11% of the region). It is one of the largest of the 19 municipalities included in the Bruxelles-Capitale Region and is situated in the south-western part of the region. The territory of Anderlecht, due to its urban history, is full of contrasts: there are rural areas, areas dedicated exclusively to sports and leisure activities, industrial estates, suburban working- class garden cities, modern neighbourhoods, wealthy residential suburbs, numerous green spaces, a historic centre and a more heavily populated urban zone where poverty is widespread. Nevertheless, communication and access are excellent throughout the territory, and this raises hopes for the possibility of development in the future.
Projects that have received URBAN funding so far are located in the neighbourhood of Cureghem, typical of areas that have been struck by dis-industrialization; close to 65% of the population is of foreign origin. These neighbourhoods which were forgotten and neglected for many years, are receiving assistance, since 1993, through a revitalization scheme known as a «neighbourhood contract». These schemes are initiated by the Bruxelles-Capitale Region and is designed to assist distressed neighbourhoods in partnership with the municipal authorities. Under such a contract, several projects are developed in each neighbourhood, to be completed within a period of four years (with a possible extension of two years to complete unfinished projects).
Within clearly defined boundaries, the following activities are undertaken : • rehabilitation of areas of urban blight ; • construction of new housing ; • improvement of existing housing ; • rehabilitation and creation of premises reserved for crafts and other industries, in conjunction with a housing project ; • development of public spaces ; • creation and improvement of local infrastructures and facilities (social, cultural, athletic and other) ; • development of social and participatory projects over the entire period of the neighbourhood contract.
Funding is provided by the Bruxelles-Capitale Region, the Municipality, URBAN and Objective 2 structural funds. In Anderlecht, these structural funds have made it possible to renovate areas of blight and to develop infrastructures that were necessary in order to launch various activities such as : • neighbourhood houses (places identified by local residents as multi-functional community areas) ; • child care centres ; • sports facilities ; • credits for the purchase of real estate ; • town planning agencies, etc.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BASTIA SEMINAR
1.4 Presentation by the city of Bastia (Jean-François Leandri) An introduction to the city of Bastia
City of Art and History since the year 2000, Bastia has a rich historic and religious heritage. With a population of 38 000, the city is also of great architectural interest because of its aesthetic and historical diversity. Its position between the mountains and the sea makes Bastia feel like an open window on the Mediterranean. The vitality of its port has made Bastia the main port in Corsica for all traffic (with over 60% of total passenger traffic). Bastia is also the fifth port in France and ranks first among French Mediterranean ports for passenger traffic.
For the past twenty years, the city has been focusing on improving the historic city centre: façades have been cleaned, buildings restored, new roads opened to create a modern climate while preserving the beauty of the old buildings.
Using experience acquired through participation and leadership in transnational cooperative programmes such as the Urban CIP, Bastia has highlighted the strong and structuring role of cultural heritage in old inner-city areas. Bastia is the only French city that has succeeded in making the development of its heritage eligible for the URBAN Programme. Bastia believes that heritage is an instrument for the development and enhancement of urban areas, and for this reason wanted to share its work and experience with other cities that have similar concerns. This has been made possible in the exchanges that have taken place within the CHORUS network under the auspices of the URBACT Programme.
30 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BASTIA SEMINAR
1.5 Presentation by the city of Belfast (Roisin McDonough) An introduction to the city of Belfast
Belfast has a population of 277 000 and is the capital of Northern Ireland. It is situated in the north-east of the island. It is a young city, and ¼ of its population have third level degrees. Nevertheless poverty and inequality have grown, despite major regeneration efforts to improve the city’s appearance and the level of economic development. The industrial heritage has left deep traces on urban identity and on the city’s landscape. Declining activity in the shipyards, linen factories and flourmills has led to the development of a new service and knowledge economy, as has happened in many other cities. While dependence on the public sector has been high, we should also note that the private sector is developing. The lack of public infrastructures is a legacy of many years of inter-community conflict in a city that is also characterised by the size of its suburbs and the dominance of its community networks.
Efforts to preserve the cultural and architectural heritage of Belfast have had unequal results. Municipal authorities (which have no planning powers, as these belong to the State) have nevertheless taken steps to increase public awareness concerning heritage preservation issues, supporting in this the initiatives taken by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. A new Architecture and Built Environment Centre was created recently as well as a pilot educational programme targeting primary schools. A cultural quarter - Cathedral Quarter- has been developed in the historic city centre; many organisations involved in activities related to heritage conversion have gathered in this area. In the suburbs, communities have focused their efforts on cultural regeneration. Cultural itineraries have also been developed in the northern and eastern parts of the city to promote cultural tourism and to boost local economies that are faltering. Culture is a major instrument for development as the City Hall in Belfast celebrates its centenary.
Belfast has received assistance under the URBAN I and II Programmes (in suburban areas) and an URBAN pilot project is underway in the Port district. Cultural activities have been integrated in these projects because of heritage issues arising in the areas. Belfast is also involved in URBACT’s Quartiers en Crise programme through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, which as a body participates in the promotion of architectural and environmental quality, in particular by granting an annual award to the best public realm projects, by supporting the commissioning of contemporary art in the public realm, and by developing awareness of the quality of design for public spaces.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BASTIA SEMINAR
1.6 Presentation by the city of Cosenza (Leonardo Acri) An introduction to the city of Cosenza
Cosenza (Consentia in Latin) was founded around 800 BC. The city has a population of 72 000 (150 000 in the urban agglomeration), and is the provincial capital of Calabria, an Objective 1 Italian region. The city is located at an altitude of 238 m. at the foot of Mount Sila; it stands at the confluence of two rivers, the Crati and the Busento. Today, it is a lively town, both commercially and culturally: it has a produce market and various industries (including food-processing, engineering, chemical products, furniture and clothing). The population of the historic city centre decreased for a time, but now the trend has reversed as immigrants arrive and these waves of invaders settle in - an understandable phenomenon in view of the city’s geographic location. The city of Cosenza has managed to transform what could have been a handicap into a positive asset and a tool for development (see the Festival of Invasions).
Cosenza is at the centre of a crown of small mountain villages. Together with the adjoining town of Rende, it forms an attractive urban agglomeration. The city’s economy is primarily characterised by activities of the service sector: public and private services, commercial and cultural activities, entertainment and leisure activities, and excellent institutions such as the University of Calabria.
Community and national programmes and projects (URBAN, INTERREG, Neighbourhood contracts, PSU, PSI, PIT) have committed themselves, by allocating funds, to the rehabilitation and development of the historic city centre: physical regeneration, social and economic development, incentive schemes to enable this urban zone to play a new and central role. The «Casa delle culture» (House of many cultures) was born in 1997; this is a highly symbolic structure which encapsulates and expresses the will to transform the historic city centre: a crossroads of many languages, a polyvalent container for initiatives, activities, encounters, debates, exhibitions, concerts and other performances, a place of intellectual ferment and community involvement, a place where it is possible to speak out, to meet, and to make comparisons. This place plays a key role in the revitalization of the historic city centre; approximately 30 000 people use these facilities where something is always going on: films, exhibitions, workshops, theatre shows, Italian lessons for immigrants, etc.
31 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BASTIA SEMINAR
1.7 Krakow joined the network in November 2004 An introduction to the city of Krakow
Krakow occupies an area of 327 km2 and is divided into 18 districts; it has a population of 746 623. This city, with its mysterious beauty, has a rich history that goes back to the year 1000. It was the seat of an important bishopric, and a castle on the Waxel hill was the residence of the royal household between the 11th and 17th centuries. The first Polish university - the Krakow Academy - was created in the city in 1364. The image of the city has changed a great deal over the centuries: in the Middle Ages, Krakow was a wealthy town, fortified and protected by thick outer walls and 55 towers. At the time of the Renaissance, Krakow became a centre for knowledge, melting-pot of ideas and creativity; this has continued, despite the beginning of economic decline in modern times. Later the market square - the second-largest in Europe after Saint Mark’s square in Venice - became the focal point of the city. Countless monuments mark the various stages of Krakow’s history. It is estimated that there are 6 000 monuments and 2.5 million objects scattered among museums, churches and archives; as a result, Krakow has been designated by UNESCO as one of the « World Heritage sites “.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BASTIA SEMINAR
1.8 Presentation by the city of Foggia (Gloria Fazia) An introduction to the city of Foggia
Foggia is a city in the northern part of the Puglie region. It is the administrative centre of one of the largest regions of Italy, with many landscapes and an important cultural history. Although the city was built in the Middle Ages, the area was already inhabited in pre-historical times; the remains of numerous Neolithic villages discovered in the area, and in particular in the centre of the city, bear witness to this. Because of the vicinity of Arpi, one of the most important centres of life and civilisation in the Daunia, the archaeological heritage of the city includes a number of important pieces. Designated «major imperial seat» by Frederick II of Hohenstaufen, the city played an important role during every historical era. Many traces of the medieval and baroque eras can still be seen today in the old town.
The city of Foggia is characterised by the presence of major administrative services; it also continues to play a very important role in agriculture, especially in the production of food grains. It has a university and many major cultural institutions. The city participated in the URBAN CIP with the objective of improving the quality of city life and promoting sustainable development. It also participated in the HORIZON project designed to improve job opportunities for handicapped people.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BASTIA SEMINAR
1.9 Presentation by the city of Girona (Joan Pluma Vilanova) An introduction to the city of Girona
Girona is a city of 87.000 inhabitants, situated in the north-east of the Iberian Peninsula, 60 km from the Pyrenees, 40 km from the Mediterranean, and 100 km from Barcelona. The rich architectural heritage of the Old Town has become the main focal point of the city. After local democracy was re-instated in 1979, the Municipality of Girona approved, in 1983, a Special Plan for the Internal Renewal of the Old Town of Girona for the purpose of revitalizing the area. This process, of strategic importance for the city as a whole, involved a number of participatory schemes. This was a rich learning experience, and as a result the city’s overall reservoir of knowledge concerning sustainable urban development and respect for the natural and cultural heritage has greatly increased.
Heritage management, and especially management of its historic city centre - the Old Town - is one of the strategic challenges facing the city of Girona; this is reflected in a series of plans : • the Special Plan for the Conservation and Conversion of the Old Town (1982), • the Special Plan for the Protection of Heritage : buildings, elements, archaeology (1993), • the Strategic Plan for the City (1994), • Girona’s Declaration of Local Agenda 21 Objectives (2000), • the General Urban Orientation Plan (2002), • the Local Action Plan for the sustainable development of Girona (2004 – 2007).
Promotional material for the city - dealing with culture, social cohesion, sustainable development, efforts to balance heritage buildings and natural environment - speaks also of the Municipality’s achievements in the management of the Old Town; this process has itself become a valuable methodological tool through the lessons that can be drawn from it. 32 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BASTIA SEMINAR
1.10 Presentation by the city of Graz (Alexander Ferstl) An introduction to the city of Graz
Designated European Capital of Culture in 2003, Graz is a university town with over 40 000 students and a total population of 278 750; it is the second-largest city in Austria and the capital of Styria. The city is located on the shore of the river Mur in the south-west of the country. In 1999, the city centre was designated a World Heritage site by UNESCO. The city of Graz (from the Slovenian word «gradec», or «small castle») is built around the hill of Schlossberg; the earliest reference to Graz is found in a document dated 881. Graz is an exemplary model of the living heritage of a Central-European urban area marked over the centuries by the presence of the Habsburg dynasty. The old town harmoniously integrates various architectural styles and artistic movements that have followed one another since the Middle Ages, as well as various cultural influences from neighbouring regions. Since 2003 when Graz was European Capital of Culture, the city owes its originality in part to the successful - and hence exemplary - integration of many modules of modern architecture in the old town. Graz has received assistance under the URBAN I and II Programmes, and has used these funds to launch a number of renovation and reorganization projects which have contributed significantly to the overall renewal of the city. Since 2001, the Department for urban development and conservation of the historic city centre has also played an active role in the European CIVITAS Programme.
The main turning-points were the following : - 1945 Foundation of the «modern little republic of Austria» - 1950 -1975 Phase 1 of reconstruction - 1976 First global plan for urban renewal - 1980 Beginnings of modern urban development; first attempts at high-density housing - 1995 Austria joins the European Community - 1996 First European programmes - 1999 The old town is designated world heritage site - 2003 European Capital of Culture
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BASTIA SEMINAR
1.11 Presentation by the city of Naples (Gaetano Mollura) An introduction to the city of Naples
Between the steep slopes of the Vesuvius and the softer ones of Capri, only a few steps from Pompey and the Amalfi Coast, ancient palaces, baroque churches and countless bustling squares are hidden away in the busy narrow back streets of Naples. Shaped like an amphitheatre opening to the sea, and bordered by the Vesuvius, Naples is the largest city in the south of Italy, with a population of 1 million. In addition to its superb natural site, Naples has a history that goes back several millennia, which accounts for its designation as World Heritage site by UNESCO. Naples is in full transition from a bustling and degraded working-class town to a modern city with huge coordinated development projects. An ambitious rehabilitation plan is underway which includes, among other projects, development of the port, construction of a metro system, and conversion of industrial estates. The city received major URBAN funding for these projects, and has launched itself purposefully into modernism. In the framework of the Urban CIP (1994-1999), the city has undertaken a programme for social, economic and environmental regeneration of two neighbourhoods in the historic city centre (Spanish Quarter, Rione Sanità). The city has completed the programme for the regeneration of the Pianura neighbourhood and has taken part in numerous transnational partnerships. It is currently involved in many projects financed by European structural funds in the framework of the Regional Operational Programme for the Campania region 2000-2006.
33 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BASTIA SEMINAR
1.12 Presentation by the city of Orense (Jose Ramon Sanchez) An introduction to the city of Orense
Named the «City of Gold» by the Romans on account of the mineral deposits and hot springs in the area, Orense is situated in the Valley of the Miño, in the south-east of the Autonomous Community of Galicia (in the north-west of Spain). The municipality includes an area of 85 km2, with a population of 108 600 inhabitants. Orense is a crossroads, a commercial centre and a service centre, and the main focus of a vast region. It is the third-largest city in Galicia, in economic terms and in demographic terms. The city’s structure, its function and its morphology witness to a rich history extending from Roman times to this day. The city was built originally by the Romans as a commercial centre at a crossroads. Today the city continues to have these features, and is developing new industrial, academic and cultural activities. As is the case in many Spanish cities, the municipality of Orense is increasingly becoming the driving force behind the development of the city as a whole and of the old town in particular. To this end, it has participated in several European projects in the framework of community programmes and initiatives, including INTERREG II and III (crossborder, inter-regional and trans-national components). Orense has also had considerable experience with crossborder activities with northern Portugal through the « Eixo Atlántico » Association for economic, cultural and social development which includes 9 Portuguese cities and 9 other Galician cities.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BASTIA SEMINAR
1.13 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (Sergio Campanella) An introduction to the city of Siracusa
Siracusa is one of the oldest cities on the Mediterranean. It was inhabited since pre-historic days (16th century BC) by native peoples, and was founded as a Greek colony in 734 BC. The city grew rapidly, and in the 5th century BC became a powerful urban centre with regulatory powers and a strong influence on the entire Mediterranean region. In the early part of the 18th century, the city was entirely rebuilt and became one of the best examples of Sicilian baroque architecture, with the Noto valley nearby. Between 1800 and 1900, Siracusa enjoyed a period of economic, urban and cultural growth greatly facilitated by the fact that it was annexed to the Kingdom of Italy in 1870. Siracusa is the capital of a province with 21 municipalities and a total population of about 441 000 inhabitants (of whom approximately 130 000 live in Siracusa itself); it has a total area of 2 109 km2 (of which the city represents 204.08 km2) on which can be found 1 071 buildings belonging to the architectural heritage (this corresponds to 0.51 architectural heritage items per km2, compared to a regional rate of 0.48) and 572 archaeological sites (a rate of 0.27 per km2 compared to a regional rate of 0.07). Two urban centres (Siracusa and Noto) have been designated World Heritage sites by UNESCO.
In recent years, Siracusa has realised that the future of the area depends on its capacity to convert the economy, which relies heavily on petrochemical industries. The amazing state of preservation of the historic city centre of Ortigia; the quality of the environment; the major tourist attractions; the quality of life and the proximity of the airport of Catania are all factors that can be instrumental in changing the trend of development through the growth of international cultural tourism. Despite inadequate planning, tourism is developing rapidly. Over the past decade, for reasons linked with serious pollution, the city has become increasingly reluctant to promote mass-tourism based exclusively on sunshine and beaches; there is also a tendency to promote a high standard of cultural tourism which is the foundation of a more modern strategy linked with sustainable development
Experience with European programmes: Over the past decade, the municipality of Siracusa has developed programmes for integrated and sustainable development, including a Territorial Covenant, CIP Urban 1, CIP Terra-Dias, P.R.U.S.S.T. (Programme of urban renewal and sustainable development of the territory), a territorial programme.
34 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BASTIA SEMINAR
1.14 Presentation by the city of Toledo (Jose Luis Rubio Rojo) An introduction to the city of Toledo
Today, Toledo has a population of close to 74 000 and is the capital of the province of Toledo and of the Spanish Autonomous Community of Castille-La Mancha. Archaeological remains of the first inhabitants of Toledo dating back to the Bronze Age were discovered in the Cerro del Bu hill. This impregnable natural fortress dominates the surrounding countryside watered by the river Tago. In 192 BC, the Romans founded the city of Toletum («fortified population» in Latin). In the 6th century of the Christian era, Toledo became the capital of the Visigoths, and was invaded by the Moors in 711. Later the city became part of the Caliphat of Cordoba. On 25 May 1085, Alphonsus VI of Castile took back Toledo from the Moslems. In the 17th century, the city became a meeting place for scholars of the three great religions - Jewish, Christian and Moslem. This eventful history has left a strong architectural and artistic legacy which led to the city’s designation by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.
The Municipality of Toledo is increasingly becoming the driving force behind the development of the city as a whole and in a special way of the historical centre. Through an integrated approach, it strives to encourage economic and social players to develop the city and especially its historic centre keeping in mind its main asset : its cultural and architectural heritage. Cultural tourism is a resource which must be developed in cooperation with other cities that are pursuing similar objectives.
For these reasons, in addition to the URBAN 1 Programme which focused on infrastructure, vocational training and social factors, the city of Toledo also participated in an Ecos-Ouverture project (Article 10 of ERDF) for heritage development (1998-2001). This work resulted in the development of the AVEC network (Alliance des Villes Européennes de la Culture) which hopes to become a permanent institution and to develop a system of labelling linked with a European charter for culture that will provide quality cultural opportunities for tourists. Toledo is not unaware of the need to work for the integration of underprivileged social groups, and shares its know-how with the cities of the Neighbourhoods in Crisis network (International Association for the Renewal of Neighbourhoods in Crisis).
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BASTIA SEMINAR
1.15 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde An introduction to the city of Vila do Conde
Situated in the district of Porto, in the north of Portugal, with a population of almost 70 000 inhabitants (28 700 in the city-centre), Vila do Conde is both a seaside resort and a place where new technologies and high-tech industries are developing. The city’s ambition is to create a viable economy and to improve the quality of life, to avoid becoming a dormitory town or being absorbed into the larger city of Porto which is only 30 km away.
The inner city is rich in ancient monuments such as the Santa Clara convent, which rises above the old town and overshadows it with its monumental presence, the old aqueduct with its rhythmic arches across the countryside, the ancient chapel, and the many monasteries and buildings that the city has reclaimed and is now using to provide space for municipal services, museums and vocational training. The city has received financial assistance from European funds and thanks to a well-organised municipal technical service, was able to use these funds to restore Vila do Conde and give it a diversified and coherent appearance through a process of urban development. The city has participated in a number of translational cooperation projects for the preservation of its heritage, including PACTE, SOCRATES, and RAPHAEL.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BASTIA SEMINAR
1.16 Presentation by the city of Volos An introduction to the city of Volos
Located in the centre of Greece, on the innermost point of the Pagassitic Gulf, between the cities of Athens and Thessaloniki, Volos is the capital of the prefecture of Magnesia. Built on the ancient site of Iolcos, the city is associated with the Greek myth of Jason who is believed to have sailed from this port with the Argonauts.
Volos, which has a population of 124 976, is known as a commercial port and an industrial centre, but has recently turned its attention to the service sector, and in particular to tourism. The modern part of Volos was built in the 1840s and grew out of a rich tradition of crafts and industries. This part of its recent history is still very much alive, and can be seen in the industrial buildings which have been abandoned and neglected, while the crafts were still practiced. A number of major earthquakes have greatly changed the face of the city. The Municipality of Volos has worked hard to save the city’s industrial heritage from oblivion by restoring a large number of buildings and often converting them and using the premises for other activities. The city’s municipal service in charge of town planning, construction and development (DEMEKAV) has coordinated a number of projects linked with various Community Initiatives: URBAN, YOUTHSTART I, YOUTHSTART II, NOW, ADAPT. Between 1996 and 1998, DEMEKAV, was lead partner of the «Cycling and Walking» thematic network, and vice-president of the Neighbourhoods in Crisis Association from 1995 to 1998. It has developed a broad range of transnational cooperative projects as member of the Urban Forum for Sustainable Development and the European Green Cities Network.
35 THE TOLEDO SEMINAR 5-6 NOVEMBER 2004
THEME 02 : TRAINING - A CORE ISSUE IN DEVELOPMENT THEME 03 : THE DIFFICULT BALANCE BETWEEN PROTECTION, DEVELOPMENT AND REGENERATION
Training - a core issue in development Scientifi c approaches and training for heritage activities in the context of integrated schemes
This seminar focused on scientifi c methods of acquiring knowledge about heritage, and on training programmes for heritage- related jobs. At the start-up seminar of the CHORUS network (Bastia, June 2004), heritage was presented as a genuine instrument of urban regeneration, and the importance of networks as instruments to study related issues was emphasised. The Toledo seminar marked the offi cial beginning of a study by the CHORUS network of scientifi c and practical instruments capable of strengthening the eff ectiveness of heritage as a resource in the context of urban regeneration.
1 If it is to become an eff ective instrument, heritage, both as concept and as fi eld of activity with its own specifi c language, must be the object of scientifi c methods and constantly updated procedures.
1.1 As regards defi nitions and decisions concerning heritage related projects to be undertaken, the concept of heritage needs to be redefi ned jointly. In order to reach the optimal level of agreement among partners concerning possible types of action, a glossary will be made available to all participants in the seminar and will be used as a basic reference tool.
1.2 The need for the highest possible degree of precision with regard to defi nitions leads to the need for accurate - and as far as possible standardised - scientifi c methods both ahead of any intervention involving a city’s cultural heritage and during its implementation.
1.2.1 Inventories are an excellent tool we can use to study the heritage, to acquire necessary knowledge, and to make appropriate decisions concerning its development - a tool that has often been neglected, but can be developed and improved in many ways. Participants in the seminar discussed in particular various approaches to scientifi c inventories used in some European cities and countries.
1.2.2 Looking ahead to heritage projects in a constantly changing urban context, training for restoration experts and skilled craftsmen must be high among the priorities of local authorities and relevant administrative departments. The Toledo seminar provided an opportunity to compare various European training programmes, and to compile a list of addresses of reputable institutions and websites.
36 2 An inventory is an essential component of any project for the rehabilitation and development of a cultural heritage site.
Scientific inventories are at the top of the list of tools that can be used to ensure that heritage contributes to urban regeneration. No coherent development or restoration action should be considered before a full inventory of heritage goods is completed. Inventories have a number of applications and functions, including the following : - Identifying the strong points of a particular heritage to improve management: discerning which restoration projects are most urgent, developing conservation and protection measures, and so forth. - Assessing development possibilities based on what exists: improving lighting in churches, creating itineraries for visits, etc. - Development of a publications policy. - Development of thematic discovery itineraries. - Organisation of temporary displays and special events (thematic shows, lectures, commentaries for tours, etc.)
During the Toledo meeting, the partners of the CHORUS network discussed scientific processes and procedures for identification of heritage goods which must be completed prior to any intervention.
3 Training for heritage jobs - a necessary guarantee for the implementation of effective and appropriate measures.
Effective and innovative training systems exist both at the local level and at European level. They should be used as valuable resources whenever projects involving the cultural heritage are considered. We have already seen that heritage cannot be properly developed without prior identification; it is also true that it cannot be developed by means of clumsy or ill-conceived restorations ill-adapted to their urban environment. Awareness of this has led to a growing felt need for training facilities; increasingly, these are listed as a priority by local authorities that are interested in the development of their heritage. The second seminar of the CHORUS network should lead to a better comparative understanding of academic and vocational training options, and to the identification of major training institutes.
37 Preparation for the Toledo Seminar
A short glossary of terms related to the scope and application of the C.H.O.R.U.S. project
The members of the C.H.O.R.U.S. network have decided to include in their work public and private heritage that is part of a global development plan for a public heritage site, as part of an urban development project.
- Cultural heritage (listed1 and non-listed) : Material and immaterial goods that have multiple meanings which are transmitted from generation to generation and to which the society attributes particular historic, artistic, scientific or traditional value. The understanding of this concept is in constant evolution, in both theoretical and practical terms, moving from an exclusive emphasis on age to a greater concern for current symbolic value to a society.
- Inventory and documentation : These terms refer to historical and scientific research on a particular heritage item for the purposes of obtaining information (documentation) and of classifying the item (inventory).
- Preservation : A series of initial measures designed to protect a site, a monument or an item from a specific or potential risk or danger.
- Reconstruction : Reconstruction work is designed to modernize a building so that it can best fulfil its function, and meet modern standards of hygiene, safety, security, etc.
- Renovation : This refers to work that consists in constructing a building again and completely on a site already occupied by buildings.
- Restoration : Bringing an item back to a known past condition through the work of specialists. Restoration is founded on the principle of respect for all available testimony, whether material, documentary or other, and has to stop at the threshold of hypothesis.
- Development : An action which makes it possible, through promotion and diffusion, for heritage treasures to be seen and enjoyed by a greater number of people, so that heritage becomes a place of encounter and exchange and a carrier of local economic, social and cultural development. For indeed, knowledge of heritage would have little justification in and of itself if this were not the objective. Examples of development projects include exhibitions, events, guided tours and cultural itineraries, scientific and popular publications.
1. In the framework of specific legislation.
38 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
TOLEDO SEMINAR
2.1 Presentation by the city of Toledo (Juan Carlos Fernandes-Layos) The Escuela Taller (pilot school in Toledo)
Background The Escuela Taller programme was developed in 1985. In Spain it is viewed as a model, because of the quality of the training it provides and because of its rate of success in finding employment for pupils.
Objectives The objectives are: to respond to the problem of unemployment, which is widespread among young people with no qualifications or experiencing integration difficulties (40% in 1985); to train young people in traditional skills that are disappearing; to work for the renewal of the historic city while developing an educational system that promotes integration and social bonds.
Methods and results Highly qualified practitioners hand down traditional skills to young people aged 16 to 24, in the context of concrete activities; the young people also receive instruction in the process of finding outlets or setting up businesses. All aspects of construction work and artistic work are covered, from carpentry to creative ceramics. The school undertakes to find outlets; key concepts are: vocational training and actual hands-on experience in the field. 85% of these young people find work immediately after completing the course. The Escuela Taller are a network of institutes federated by the public authorities.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
TOLEDO SEMINAR
2.2 Presentation by the city of Bastia (Florence Cagninacci) Training for heritage jobs in France: higher level programmes
Background Many channels and strands are available to train for new jobs in the heritage (cultural management, management of cultural enterprises, heritage conservation and restoration, etc.). These programmes highlight the explosion of heritage related occupations over the past two decades which has led to an increase in the economic value of the integration of heritage in the processes of urban regeneration.
Methods and results There are four kinds of training programmes :
• Public institutes under the authority of the Ministry for Culture (École du Louvre, CEHE in Chaillot) where courses are provided in archaeology, art history, epigraphy, anthropology, history of civilizations and museology, as well as various specialisations in the field of conservation (archives, archaeology, inventories, historical monuments, museums, scientific, technical and natural heritage) and conservation, restoration, adaptation and reutilization of historical buildings and centres. Graduates of these courses receive internationally recognised degrees.
• University programmes such as doctorates in museology and heritage, masters in conservation and restoration of cultural goods, higher degrees in conservation and restoration of paintings and sculpture.
• Institutes specialising in instruction and occupational integration, such as the Centres for training of apprentices in France and in Germany.
• In addition, many private vocational training institutes develop training courses on heritage-related topics with a strong emphasis on integration for people experiencing difficulties in this area.
39 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
TOLEDO SEMINAR
2.3 Presentation by the city of Bastia (Pierre-Pascal Piacentini) : The unique system of «compagnonnage»
Background and context Work on items belonging to the historical heritage requires a high level of expertise, know-how, skill and precision; this is the only way to ensure that these items are treated with respect, and that any special difficulties that may arise in working, for example, with lead, copper, lime coating, stone cutting, sculpture, slate roofing, carpentry, joinery or murals, are dealt with appropriately. A workers’ association known as the «compagnonnage» is one of the oldest tradesmen’s movements in our country, and was known in its early days as the «devoir». Historians have traced it as far back as the days of the Crusades and of the construction of Gothic cathedrals in the 13th century.
Objectives The objective is - and has been for several centuries - precisely to develop these artisan skills.
Methods and results «Compagnonnage» is a form of training based on the principle that a man is made and moulded by his craft. The «compagnons du devoir» have developed procedures and structures for admission, training, study and research. They exhibit, publish and distribute publications, organise and participate in events designed to foster the development of crafts represented within the association. Briefly, «compagnonnage» is a form of training based on alternate learning, i.e. apprentices acquire the foundations of a particular skill in an enterprise and in a training centre of the «compagnons du devoir». At a human level, they are taught a skill, but they are also taught a system of values. «Compagnonnage» is founded and centred on the transmission of a wealth of traditional knowledge. To be received as a «compagnon», the candidate must be aged between 15 and 25 and have completed secondary school. «Compagnonnage» offers training in 23 trades. Young people who are undecided can discover their particular craft by spending a full day in an enterprise. Young people are treated as employees. The work schedule is structured as follows: 6 weeks in the enterprise, followed by 2 weeks at the training centre run by the «compagnons»; regular meetings are scheduled with the coordinator of the internship within the company to analyse the work completed by the young apprentice and to adapt training accordingly. Moreover, we must point out that community life is strictly supervised. The association places a strong emphasis on human, behavioural and professional values. Much of the learning takes place through a journey, during which the young traveller moves through a wide range of professional and cultural experiences and passes from the stage of candidate to that of companion. At this point he is given a contract and moves to a new city once or twice a year.
Travel gives the young apprentice : • A wide range of techniques • Mobility and the capacity to adapt • Human and cultural enrichment • « A desire to know, to keep on learning more, always more. »
The «compagnons du devoir» continue to be dependent on the association. They must swear an oath to respect the laws of the group after they are told the secrets of their trade. Only once he has completed his travels across France is the candidate received as a «compagnon du devoir» after completing an admission task. At this point he becomes a travelling «compagnon» and he is now ready to do his duty and hand on the knowledge he has received to younger apprentices. Today, as in the past, the «compagnons du devoir» profess values that have been the foundation of their system - welcoming and mentoring, sharing, transmitting professional skills, openness and mindfulness towards others. This is only true within the association; the system does not apply to the company as a whole. « It is important to emphasize the difficulties they may encounter in their professional lives. They do not share their know-how with individuals who are not part of the compagnonnage. It should be noted that they may have difficulties adjusting within a team, due to a lack of trust in the company.» Nevertheless, compagnonnage is heir to a long and magnificent tradition, one that has great potential for the future.
40 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
TOLEDO SEMINAR
2.4 Presentation by the city of Krakow (Natalia Biernat and Halina Rojkowska - Tasak) Revitalization and preservation in Krakow
Background and context In the past, restoration policies in Poland focused mainly on inner-city areas and were aimed at attracting tourists. Today, the government has set up a special fund for restoration of the heritage.
Objectives Three neighbourhoods in Krakow have been targeted for in depth restoration projects : - Zablocie (part of the Jewish ghetto during World War II) - Branice (a post-industrial neighbourhood) - Kazimierz (the old Jewish quarter).
Methods and results - In Zablocie, several themes were selected: work with enterprises; development of urban space; social ties; development of cultural space and scientific space; housing. - In Branice, where industrial heritage is important, projects were designed specifically for this type of heritage. - In Kazimierz, works were very extensive, beginning with a detailed inventory of the large number of monuments; global interventions have transformed this neighbourhood making it one of the most culturally lively high-profile neighbourhoods of Krakow.
A detailed and thorough inventory of about 5000 buildings has also been completed, and includes moveable items as well. In this way; 70% of the city has now been covered. The inventory schedules include descriptions and documentation for each building and for each object within the building, and can be updated as necessary.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
TOLEDO SEMINAR
2.5 Presentation by the city of Bastia (Michel-Edouard Nigaglioni) The contents of scientific and technical inventories
Background and context Using moveable public heritage items, and making them participate in the process of urban regeneration is a political choice. To implement such a choice, the first step is to realise that a thorough inventory is a pre-requisite; it is essential to compile a register, and to document and appraise all the items included in the heritage. Only a rigorous and thorough scientifically produced inventory can result in optimal use and enhancement of precious artistic and historic works.
Objectives To identify «strong points» in the local heritage and contribute to their good management; to define possible ways of enhancing and developing the heritage; to contribute to a vibrant publication policy; to contribute to the development of thematic discovery tours by enriching the contents of the information provided by tour guides; to organise temporary exhibits and specific events; to respond to the frequent requests for information from the press and other media.
Methods and results An art historian has been working fulltime for the city since 1998. Coordination and logistics for the various projects (i.e. field surveys, documentation in archives, photographic campaigns) are provided by a municipal service established in 1997 - the Direction du Patrimoine. The city has adopted a methodology developed by a government service in the Ministry for Culture: the General Inventory of monuments and works of art in France, Research and Documentation Service established in 1964. An agreement was signed to this effect in 1998 between the city of Bastia and the Regional Service of the General Inventory. An inventory of Bastia’s moveable heritage is thus being made using expert systems of schedules that were used at the national level. Ultimately, the data will be entered into a national data base of moveable items known as «PALISSY». The inventory in Bastia is supplemented by documentary research in the archives and a systematic photographic campaign. The process has more than met expectations, bringing a wide range of resources to the city. The study of all gold and silver items and paintings in the city’s churches is now completed.
41 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
TOLEDO SEMINAR
2.6 Presentation by the city of Bastia (Audrey Giuliani) Research as a tool for heritage development
Background and context To complete the work of architects and experts involved in restoration work on private and public buildings, listed and non-listed, the city’s Direction du Patrimoine entrusted to doctoral students in art history a research project aimed at unearthing - by searching through the archives - any information that can be used to foster a rediscovery and a renaissance of the city’s past.
Objectives All of this work is linked with a specific policy: urban regeneration and development of cultural heritage which is viewed as a resource and an opportunity for economic development, modernisation and social cohesion.
Methods and results The research project involved a careful perusal of records of all the debates of the city’s municipal council between 1800 and 1900. The project may be extended to the present day and is an example of the many efforts made to obtain information on the past history of the city. It has now become possible to trace the detailed history of the development of the city’s urban structure. In operational terms, this work has had two by-products : - cultural tourism: the city offers a range of cultural itineraries and tours of heritage sites, enriched by new discoveries (the cathedral of Sainte-Marie and the church of Saint-Charles) ; - renovation and improvement of the residential environment but also of specific buildings; restoration and rehabilitation were made possible thanks to support from the European Union in the framework of the Urban II Programme since 2001. The city of Bastia has thus set up a process to support its urban development projects through basic research which it views as an essential prerequisite. Thanks to this project, which was developed by the Direction du Patrimoine, research work ahead of project development is now considered to be one of the most important stages of renewal and rehabilitation, for it is the vital groundwork for a successful restoration project.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
TOLEDO SEMINAR
2.7 Presentation by the city of Toledo (Ignacio Alvarez-Ahedo and Leonardo Blanco) Monitoring the Old Town in Toledo, and the data-base system
Background and context In the early 1980s, the population of Toledo’s inner city was in constant decline (down to 12 000, from a high of 40 000 to 50 000). Today, the city is expanding towards the north. During the 1970s, and looking ahead to further expansion, industrial zones were planned, train stations, a communication networks, etc. While the URBAN 1 Programme focused on developing infrastructure, training and the social dimension, the city of Toledo worked on an Ecos-Ouverture project (Article 10 of ERDF) for the development of its heritage (1998-2001). The fruit of these efforts was the creation of the AVEC network (Alliance des Villes Européennes de la Culture) which is seeking to become a permanent institution, and the development of a European charter of culture (with labelling) to promote high quality tourist services.
Objectives Two objectives have been set for the historic city centre: maintain population density and attract new residents. The city hoped to stimulate economic and social factors to develop the city, and in particular the Old Town, keeping in mind that the main asset of this area is its cultural and architectural heritage.
Methods and results 110 monuments have been recorded in an inventory and divided into several categories: the great monuments, less significant monuments, monuments that have retained their original richness, monuments that are interesting but not of major significance (600 monuments are included in this category). Certain problems were identified at the same time, some of them linked to the uneven terrain (40m grade difference)) and parking. The city’s streets have been opened up to traffic, within limits, and the old layout of the streets has been preserved. Overall, this programme received considerable support from Europe (45 M€ over a 6 year period), with a 30% participation from the city. A Consortium was created jointly with employers, which brings in 10 M€ per year. Rehabilitation of private housing selected in accordance with particular criteria was assisted by the city at the rate of 50%. In addition, a very effective SIG data base system, linked with a GPS system, has been developed. The efficiency and scope of this data base are very important for the decision-making process; it is possible, with this system, to have access to maps, aerial photos, the inventory and the cadastre. At the same time, the city of Toledo does not forget to work for the integration of disadvantaged social groups, and shares its know-how with the cities of the «Neighbourhoods in Crisis» network (International Association for the Revitalization of Neighbourhoods in Crisis).
42 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
TOLEDO SEMINAR
2.8 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (Sergio Campanella) Management of restoration projects in the old centre of Siracusa
Background and context Siracusa has a population of 130 000 for an area of 2 109 km2. An inventory of the city’s cultural heritage lists 1051 architectural items and 572 archaeological items. In view of the significance of its heritage, the city has been designated World Heritage centre by UNESCO, despite the fact that there has been a significant decrease in the city’s population - from 23 000 in 1960 to 5 500 - which is a cause for concern.
Objectives To develop an operational system for the safeguard of the heritage which would integrate «nature and culture» with a view to recreating the Mediterranean urban tradition.
Methods and results A preservation plan has been developed : • 7 special protection areas have been defined. • Three bridges have been built connecting the island of Ortiggia to the city. • Coordinated strategies have been developed : - a tourist information service coordinated with guesthouse owners - active promotion of crafts - earthquake-resistant restoration and preventive measures - conversion and development through creation of new profitable businesses.
In addition, an excellent GIS system has been installed for the municipality and the historic centre. This regeneration scheme has not yet been fully implemented; nevertheless, it has already transformed the island of Ortiggia (the heart of the historic centre of Siracusa), turning it into a place where economic development has harmoniously contributed to heritage development. However, speculation has not been completely stopped.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
TOLEDO SEMINAR
2.9 Presentation by the city of Naples (Giancarlo Ferulano) The complex rehabilitation of a square in the old city centre of Naples
Background and context Congestion in the inner city of Naples has reached unacceptable levels because of excessive traffic. The complexity of the urban fabric around two squares in particular - Dante and Cavour - contributed to exacerbate the difficulties and caused the city to respond.
Objectives The city of Naples decided to implement an ambitious public transport policy involving in particular two new metro lines which would allow easy access to the city centre.
Methods and results Construction of the metro lines was seen as an opportunity to undertake an interesting redevelopment scheme in the inner-city squares - Piazza Municipio, Piazza Dante, and Piazza Cavour. Piazza Municipio opened up the city towards the port. Work on Piazza Dante renewed the urban fabric of this complex area. The architects - including Gae Aulenti for Piazza Dante - were inspired by ancient drawings of these historic areas which went through many changes over the centuries. Their earlier function as doors to the city has been reinstated by linking their use to the metro (which also has the role of providing a new access to the ancient neighbourhood); adjacent neighbourhoods have been re-integrated into the urban whole. The pedestrian link to the National Archaeological Museum and to the Royal Palace has been restored and extended towards the old centre through Port’Alba. The great complexity of this work, at the technical, archaeological and urban levels, is illustrative of situations that are commonly faced by urban development projects in historic centres where unexpected developments frequently arise from underground discoveries, causing cost-management problems. This involves extensive documentation work, and ongoing dialogue with agencies responsible for the protection of archaeology and architecture. In the end, many modern works were integrated into the scheme, representing some of the greatest names in the international world of the arts. Finally, a pro-active policy has been developed for the renovation and creation of green areas in order to reduce density in this over-crowded area (in particular the Villa Comunale and the hill of San Martino). Difficulties arise primarily due to a lack of funds for the restoration of many monuments in these neighbourhoods, and in defining functions that are appropriate to their architectural typology.
43 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
TOLEDO SEMINAR
2.10 Presentation by the city of Toledo (Gervaso Fernandez-Riol) The role of the Consortium in the restoration of the old town in Toledo
Background and context In 1986 the city of Toledo was designated World Heritage site by UNESCO. The city’s heritage is in fact outstanding, and goes back more than 2000 years, with a layering of many remarkable civilisations. The dangers of degradation, as well as those of speculation, became increasingly obvious, and citizens became aware of the urgent need to act.
As regards private houses, heritage buildings are characterised by the importance of patios, witnessing to the Arab occupation. Noble homes were gradually abandoned beginning in the 16th century as noble families followed the royal court to Madrid; by the 17th century there was a definite decline.
Objectives To develop an instrument for the preservation of the historic centre of Toledo.
Methods and results In 1960 the old town had a population of 10 000 and the city was in ruins. By 1980 a preservation plan has been developed and in 1997 the city instituted a «special plan» and issued a decree for the development of architectural heritage. A special agency was created - the Consortium - which included representatives of the regional authorities, the municipality, the State and private enterprises. A number of carefully targeted projects were implemented with the funds that were collected through the Consortium: 60% for housing (1000 projects), for monuments (9 of the 19 towers in the city were restored, as well as 10th century palaces, etc.), and the archaeological heritage. Today, the tide has turned: residents are asking for the work of restoration to continue rather than for the buildings to be torn down. In some cases, the rate of subsidies has reached 100 per cent.
44 THE VILA DO CONDE SEMINAR 18-19 MARCH 2005
THEME 05 : CULTURAL IDENTITY AS A DIMENSION OF URBAN REGENERATION
CULTURAL IDENTITY AS AN URBAN DEVELOPMENT THEME
After the Toledo Seminar (5-6 November 2004), the Vila do Conde Seminar was keen to turn to practical and operational approaches to the development of historic inner-city areas. Using an approach that is new to the CHORUS network, the Villa do Conde workshop was in itself a «case study» of a «cultural heritage project in a partner city”. The Seminar was organised around visits to various sites; input from the partners enriched the proposals for approaches to the cases discussed, and will benefi t all the members of the CHORUS network and of other European networks.
1 The example of Vila do Conde : a global cross-cutting urban regeneration project with a special focus on cultural identity
Vila do Conde’s approach to town planning over the past few years indicates a clear trend towards focusing on the city’s cultural identity as a development theme. The development of public amenities, of civil buildings, the integration of public facilities with a structural dimension that makes them ideal spaces for conviviality across generations, the search for ways of strengthening local memories and traditions - these all witness to this approach. The advantage of this process is that it is not part of a world of nostalgia, but rather wishes to point heritage development and the entire process of the project towards a more positive future for the city. The role of modern architecture is to remind us of this goal.
a – Case study of an average prototypal city
In the framework of a global approach to urban regeneration, generating balance across all sectors and all local decisions, the procedures that underlie work on local buildings must integrate the cultural, social, economic and political dimensions in their implementation plan. The idea is to develop a local creative process capable of introducing the urban reality into an action policy that is both «modern» and respectful of the cultural heritage and of its particular ecology. In view of the above parameters, the city of Vila do Conde appeared to be an good choice for such a case study. By its size, the city corresponds to the average European norm, making it an appropriate choice for a study of a typical case by the CHORUS network and by other networks. Moreover, the city’s heritage includes buildings of signifi cant architectural interest, thereby meeting the specifi c study criteria of the CHORUS network. It was felt that in the context of CHORUS exchanges of good practice and capitalisation of these exchanges, the example of a city that needs to address the issue of urban development while taking into account the cultural heritage and hence the respectful development of this heritage, could prove useful and benefi cial.
45 b- A major instrument of the heritage regeneration policy in Vila do Conde is the integrated architectural service.
In the course of the meeting, the partners were able to observe the operating procedures of the local administration which has set up a special team within the Local Technical Cabinet. The team is responsible for urban planning and architecture in the city and is designed to seek balanced alternatives for the development of Vila do Conde. The contributions of Vila do Conde’s partners to the network’s reflections are intended to reveal mechanisms, means and objectives of integrated action by the administration for the development of the city. The organisation of the Local Technical Cabinet grew out of a major political project by which the Municipality intends to control local development and the city’s image. While the city has a population of 38 000, the Local Technical Cabinet, a fully-fledged municipal service, includes no fewer than 18 architects. Going against the pattern of local practices common in many cities throughout Europe, where local authorities turn to external services for expertise, the example of Vila do Conde suggests a different approach. The focus is primarily on analysing various approaches to the rehabilitation of significant buildings belonging to the local architectural heritage and corresponding modern functions which are then attributed to them. In the framework of crosscutting work for the regeneration of the urban fabric, this kind of operational organisation at the local level is likely to produce an image of a city that is resolutely modern and forward-looking but is nevertheless respectful of its memories and of its history.
c- A related question : funding of projects for the regeneration of private buildings in the historic city centre
At the request of Manuel Maia Gomes, the architect in charge of the Local Technical Cabinet, the Seminar also focused on the issue of funding for regeneration of private buildings in the city centre, and various types of public and private participation.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
VILA DO CONDE SEMINAR
3.1 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Miguel Sousa) Training in urban development in Vila do Conde
Background and context Few traces are left today of the Roman occupation, but trade, fishing and agriculture were developed during that time. Strictly speaking, the core of the urban centre dates back to the 9th and 10th centuries. The earliest traces of urban life in Vila do Conde go back to the 12th century, along the coast and in the port. By the 13th and 14th centuries structural landmarks are in place (a central square, the southern urban centre and the monastery hill). In the 16th century Vila do Conde emerges on the European scene, and this results in important developments: major roads are built across the city dividing it in half, but also linking it directly to Porto. In the 19th century the town becomes a seaside resort and this leads to territorial expansion. Until the first half of the 20th century, there are two major poles in the city - North and South - with real estate speculation in the northern area. An urban development plan is issued at this point aimed at a search for open land, but fails because of lack of integration. The city, which is 15 minutes from Porto and has 16 km of beaches, today has a population of 38 000, with a total of 70 000 in the greater metropolitan area. Employment is high (7% rate of unemployment), industries are diversified and remain largely unaffected by the economic crisis.
Objectives The main priorities of the regeneration policy are to revitalize the centre; to combat speculation; to encourage rehabilitation of the heritage; to foster appropriation and development; to link neighbourhoods.
Methods and results During the 1980s, a new plan was developed which focused on reclaiming the city centre and attempting to check speculation. Private owners were encouraged to refurbish heritage buildings and to install structural facilities. Citizens’ participation was at the heart of this scheme, and today the city centre has been revitalised, and urban space has been developed. The Local Technical Cabinet played an important role in this scheme and was responsible for most project management tasks.
46 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
VILA DO CONDE SEMINAR
3.2 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Paulo Costa Pinto) Integrated structures in Vila do Conde : the municipal archaeological laboratory
Background and context Vila do Conde has a rich archaeological heritage which includes 60 pre-medieval sites in the city centre alone, and 80 sites of industrial archaeology. In 1998, a decision was made to create a municipal archaeological laboratory.
Objectives At the scientific level, the primary objective is to safeguard and show the archaeological remains of the city. But in terms of development, the objective in creating the service was to turn archaeology into a contributing factor of economic development, energizing the local economy, especially through tourism.
Methods and results The laboratory is one of the best equipped in Northern Portugal. It is staffed by a highly efficient integrated multidisciplinary team. In operational terms, it has the power to act decisively: thus, in 1995, work on a large dam was stopped when rock paintings were discovered. This episode led to new national laws which require archaeological excavations to be undertaken before works begin. The archaeological laboratory steps in as soon as a project is set up, during the APS (preliminary assessments). The originator of the project pays for the archaeological survey. Overall, the cost of such a service is still inferior to that of hiring outside consultants. An archaeological orientation plan has been developed. Its role, however, is also to diffuse knowledge at the time of excavations. The existence of this kind of municipal service makes it possible to act not only in terms of scientific knowledge of the heritage, but also in terms of protection, education and development of the city’s identity.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
VILA DO CONDE SEMINAR
3.3 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Maria Leonor Macedo) : Conversion of the old Casino into the Municipal Youth Centre
Objectives The initial objective was to integrate the different communities by providing leisure activities and vocational training.
Methods and results The project was implemented as a Youth Centre, on the premises of the old Casino; it includes a cafeteria, a multimedia library, and areas for leisure activities. The multimedia library is very popular: in 2004, there were 25 300 visitors, i.e. about 80 a day. A dance hall has been refurbished, and approximately ten different training courses take place in it, as well as music lessons, workshops in circus skills, sculpture, masks, and a puppet theatre. A telecentre has been set up next door with activities linked to the NTIC, design and multimedia. There is an exhibition hall and a theatre, as well as a planetarium. Training courses are mostly in computer skills and languages; there are 130 students. This is a municipal centre, and it is entirely managed by the city. Attendance can be as high a 400 to 500 young people a day; however, a downward trend in activities has been recorded, due to a lack of projects. New activities must be introduced in order to stimulate interest.
47 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
VILA DO CONDE SEMINAR
3.4 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Miguel Figuereido) An art restoration business in Vila do Conde
Background and context The « A. Ludegero de Castro » company was set up in response to demand by owners of cultural goods, both movable and immovable; it is involved in many complex restoration projects. As an example, the company restored a listed ceiling in the conversion of the Casino into a cultural centre for young people.
Objectives To set up a business for the restoration of cultural goods.
Methods and results The « A. Ludegero de Castro » company has focused on three areas: conservation, restoration, and rehabilitation of both movable and immovable goods. The company includes a multidisciplinary team of about twenty specialists in scientific documentation and practical intervention. All the team members are qualified. The company’s interventions are based on public tenders issued by the cities. The process follows the usual norms that apply to listed heritage goods, and results in the definition of a restoration project that includes a description of the work involved. This company illustrates the fact that revitalizing the heritage promotes a capacity to develop economic activities in the sector.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
VILA DO CONDE SEMINAR
3.5 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Manuel Maia Gomes) The customs house and shipyard museum: an interpretive centre
Background and context This complex includes 3 connecting groups of buildings, the oldest of which dates back to 1487, and the most recent one to the 19th century. It is situated close to the river, on the old docks along the shore. It was an interesting architectural structure of warehouses used by the customs.
Objectives The main objective was to rehabilitate this important heritage site by developing the theme of ship building, an industry that was once central to the life of Vila do Conde and was later gradually abandoned.
Methods and results The buildings were converted into a documentation centre, and the entire structure has been turned into a mini-museum on sailing and ship building. The designs that were adopted were inspired by the shape of the ships and by the materials that were used to build them. The documentation centre focuses on marine cartography and interpretation of maritime commerce; it provides realistic representations of the loading of ships and the goods that were transported, with an educational approach. In addition to the development of this theme, the architectural revamping of the building and grounds has been undertaken with a respectful but modern attitude, especially as regards the treatment of the approach; this has contributed to open up the area and improve access to the buildings. This project has had a strong impact on the cultural and educational landscape of the city.
48 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
VILA DO CONDE SEMINAR
3.6 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Manuel Maia Gomes) The lace museum
Background and context Included in the heritage of Vila do Conde was a derelict 15th century two-story building.
Objectives Beyond the will to safeguard an interesting heritage site, the objectives were to promote traditional lacework in the fashion industry with a view to economic development, and to hand down traditional skills.
Methods and results The building today houses 3 institutions: a centre for vocational training, a lace museum, and a lacemaking school. The museum contains very few items (a few perforated cards, spindles and materials). The site is interesting primarily in social terms: two lacemakers teach traditional lacemaking skills to children aged 4 and above. The site serves as an inter-generational tool and an instrument for the conservation of traditional skills.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
VILA DO CONDE SEMINAR
3.7 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Manuel Maia Gomes) Conversion of the old prison into a Centre for science and life (Centre de la science vivante)
Background and context The old prison in Vila do Conde was closed down in the 1970s; since then, it was used as a shelter by homeless people. The building’s image suffered when an old retaining wall was demolished. These difficulties, together with the new urban development regulations, prompted the search for a new architectural image.
Objectives The building is situated on the shore of the river Bird, which flows into the Atlantic precisely at this spot. The idea was to convert the prison into a «centre of living waters», to be used as a research centre, in partnership with the Ministry for Science, the University of the Port, and the city council.
Methods and results The operation began with works to level the grounds, improve access for people with reduced mobility, and transform the grounds into public gardens. The next step was to work on the new identity of the place in order to transcend the memories of the old prison. Sufficient space was available on the grounds for the construction of three new buildings: a 50 seat conference hall, a multimedia hall with 30 PCs, and a laboratory for the analysis of water quality. Visitors are invited to an audio-visual programme which shows various ways in which water can be used as energy. Children and researchers can conduct a range of experiments in the experimentation centre. All of this work was done to provide a high quality public infrastructure, functional and coherent with the major urban regeneration scheme for Vila do Conde. There was also a will to radically renew the symbolism and image of the site. Today the site is extremely successful and popular.
49 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
VILA DO CONDE SEMINAR
3.8 Presentation by the city of Bastia (Véronique Vancoillie) OPAH in Bastia - specific funding for restoration
Background and context OPAH in Bastia targets the historic city centre - the Citadel - which was built in the 15th and 16th centuries, as well as the neighbourhoods that grew around it in the 17th and 18th centuries. These neighbourhoods are characterised by overcrowding, narrow streets, and very tall buildings (7 or 8 levels, built one against the other). The project area comprises almost 3000 homes, 80% of which are primary residences, 6% are second homes, and 14% are vacant units (i.e. almost 400 units). Reclaiming vacant housing is one of the top priorities of OPAH.
Objectives The objective of the project was to rehabilitate 678 housing units (i.e. 30% of the total) over a period of 6 years, converting 42% into rented accommodation and 58% into owner occupied units.
Methods and results OPAH is a partnership contract between at least 3 parties: the State, the ANAH (Agence Nationale pour l’Amélioration de l’Habitat - National agency for better housing), and a local authority. Each party makes a commitment to fulfil specific quantitative and qualitative rehabilitation objectives and to provide a certain amount of funding. It is then possible to provide direct assistance to owners, as well as means (operational leadership team). This aspect is essential because major consciousness raising work is required to mobilise owners. The usual duration of an OPAH agreement is 3 years (but can be extended to 6 years in exceptional cases). Financial assistance to owners is provided partly for private improvements (improving the level of comfort inside the homes) and partly for communal improvements (repairs to roofs, external walls, stairs and landings). ERDF contributes only to restoration work that is visible from the exterior (roofs and frontage) at a rate of up to 25.78%. At the end of the first three years, 52.4% of the objectives had been achieved. Results are better for owner occupied units (57% of objectives achieved). Only 47% of objectives were achieved in rented housing Works for over 4.2 M€ have been completed, and over 2M€ has been allocated by the 3 partners (52% of the total).
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
VILA DO CONDE SEMINAR
3.9 Presentation by the city of Graz (Alexander Ferstl) The inner-city conservation fund : a tool to boost private investment
Background and context The programme for the rehabilitation of the historic quarter of Graz dates back to 1970. Zoning was introduced in the 1980s and UPP and Urban 1 programmes were launched; the historic centre was designated World Heritage site by UNESCO. In 1974, a conservation fund was set up for the city centre.
Objectives The main objective is conservation of the ancient heritage of the city of Graz.
Methods and results Measures have been taken in Graz to preserve the heritage. Intervention zones have been defined (the 1923 protection of monuments area). A large number of restrictions are imposed within the area, but the budget available to the operational team (Bureau of Conservation of Monuments) is very small, and there are noticeable gaps. A conservation fund for the city centre has been set up as part of the Conservation Act of the historical centre of Graz, which was promulgated at the national level. The fund pays for renovation and protection schemes in the 5 protection zones: frontages, gates, traditional roofs, gardens, etc. The budget is of 10M€ (70% from private funds). Private investment raises the problem of consistency between restoration projects. Nevertheless, private contributions are very high. For new or non-protected buildings, competitions are organised for artists and architects. Overall, the system has achieved its goals in terms of efficiency: between 1974 and 2004, 1300 buildings have been renovated.
50 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
VILA DO CONDE SEMINAR
3.10 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (Sergio Campanella) Developing Siracusa’s old town: problems and projects
Background and context Little by little, the island of Ortiggia, the heart of Siracusa’s historical centre, had become subject to escheat. An awareness of the seriousness of the situation led to a sense of urgency, and resulted in major in-depth work over a period of several decades. On 11 April 1968, a decree was issued declaring the island a public interest site; on 15 April 1976, a regional protection law was passed; on 27 March 1980, a special protection plan was issued; and on 18 May 1996, a law was passed on the integration of urban, territorial and environmental renewal policies. In 2000, the State allocated to the PRU of Ortiggia the full amount of the joint fund (9.2M€, of which 90% is in public funds.
Objectives Three objectives were set for the PRU : to protect the residential heritage ; to renew common spaces ; to redevelop existing public facilities.
Methods and results A full arsenal of rules and regulations was developed (special law for Ortiggia and PPO, the «Ortiggia» PRU, the «economy and tourism» PRUSST, and for the suburbs, PRU Mazzarona, San Panagia-Palazzo). Community programmes were crucial (CIP Urban 1, CIP Terra DIAS for spatial integration and planning of the cultural and environmental heritage, Integrated Territorial Programme for historical and cultural development and especially for the development of identity linked with typical productive activities). Significant funding was made available: 30 M€ in 1996 (private and public) which continues to this day at the average rate of 1.5M€ per year, entirely from private sources. Assistance is provided according to specific rates: 70% for frontages, 60% for common areas, 30% for internal areas. On average, assistance is in the range of 55 to 60%. PRUSST (tourism, environment, internationalization of the territory and development of human resources) involves 21 cities at a cost of 11.4 M€ (50% in public funds). These projects have had a remarkable impact in terms of requalification and economic revitalization based on local resources.
51 THE BELFAST SEMINAR 24-25 JUNE 2005
THEME 07 : HERITAGE AND SOCIETY
The role of heritage in the expression of social ties
It has become common practice to look really closely at the social identity of a neighbourhood only in extreme cases of erosion of social ties (searching for a way out of a crisis, explosive suburbs, etc.); occasionally we may do so in moderately diffi cult situations, and almost never in so-called «normal» situations where the need for regeneration does not rest on a confl ictual situation. Yet, regeneration of the urban fabric always has major implications at the social level and more generally at the level of identity; this is always true, and not only in times of confl ict. But the cultural identity of a city is also determined by that of the social and human fabric that makes up its present-day population, the people who are involved in the day-to-day life of the city. Examples of major regeneration processes, such as the one experienced in Belfast, invite us to consider this aspect as one of the basic elements in the process of designing a heritage development programme.
Urban regeneration in the context of disputed urban space
In terms of a legacy of political violence, of residential and community segregation characterised by mutual fear and suspicion, the particular features of Belfast were critical factors in the process of development. In many parts of the city, territory has become the bone of contention, refl ecting the political confl ict. Planning had to take these confl icts as its starting point, but lacked the conceptual tools to engage. There was a great need for serious refl ection on issues linked with planning for the areas in question.
The nature of disputed space
In all confl ictual situations we fi nd that space is constructed socially and that in turn it has a strong impact on social relations. The example of Belfast highlights an extreme version of this phenomenon which has experimental value but also universal operational value. A city cannot be reduced to a particular physical form; rather, it is at once stage and actor, defi ned by its unique history and character. These articulations, however, are fraught with diffi culties in cities where territories are disputed, where space is a testing ground for major confl icts concerning ethnic belonging, territory and in some cases nationality.
Planning and policy-making in disputed areas
There are several approaches to planning in disputed areas : A «neutral» approach to a confl ict is a deliberately «daltonian» (colour-blind) model, and involves a professional and technocratic attitude which attempts to de-politicize the planning intervention. The «partisan» model involves planning that is intentionally used by the State to favour the dominant population group. The «equitable» model, on the other hand, describes planning that contributes to promote equality between the warring factions. The «decisive» approach takes a more radical, strategic and pro-active stand: here planning contributes to a broader social eff ort to address the fundamental issues underlying the confl ict.
52 Changing space in a changing conflict
There is a definite improvement in inter-community relations in Northern Ireland; the overall situation can be summarised as follows : • Violence at the interface between communities continues to affect lives, property, businesses and public services. • Levels of tolerance and respect for diversity within the Catholic and Protestant communities have improved. • Housing has become more separate over the last twenty years; over 70% of housing projects are either 90% Protestant or 90% Roman Catholic. • Approximately 95% of all children still attend separate schools. There is only a small increase in the number of children attending integrated schools, despite indications that more parents would prefer such an option. • Racial prejudice is very high in Northern Ireland, and the situation has worsened in recent times. • Not much has changed with regard to models for inter-community «friendships». • In some urban areas, new divisions are appearing within local communities. This is linked with paramilitary influence, especially at the interface between communities. • People’s lives continue to be defined by community conflicts.
Developing a new strategy
• Zero tolerance for intimidation by the use of symbols, supported by legislation and police action. • Creating defendable space through appropriate design and lighting, by combining uses of space, and by making the environment welcoming and friendly. • Neighbourhood networks : cross-community networks designed to serve social needs rather than ethnic investment. • Dealing with perpetrators of intimidation and bullying, rather than moving the victims. • Voluntary development of shared space starting in the city centre and reaching out to the main roads and beyond. • Administrative units for groups that are spatially mixed : this covers neighbourhoods in mixed areas. Similarly, community projects that by their scope and emphasis on participation overcome division and contribute to make the city more open and integrated should be welcomed in a special way, as they are consistent with the overall urban strategy. • Use of financial tools to support projects for the regeneration of «a unique identity» throughout the community. This could be part of the construction of a concept of «economics of consensus» in opposition to the «economics of conflict». Thus, instead of rival communities competing against the «others» for urban resources, we might offer incentives to encourage people to develop a shared collaborative asset through applications for joint grants.
This extreme case has much to teach us about situations of urban crisis such as, paradoxically, the distressed historic inner-cities where spatial analysis must be combined with genuine attention to social markings of space.
53 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BELFAST SEMINAR
4.1 Presentation by the city of Belfast (Roisin McDonough) Belfast moves on: letting go of conflicts in a city of many communities
The city of Belfast is a particularly good illustration of an urban regeneration process where work with cultural identity is central. The issue of social cohesion emerges in connection with urban degradation, itself a consequence of destruction caused by conflicts between communities.
Economic context Belfast has a population of 277 000, and the total population of Northern Ireland is 1.7 million. For the last 30 years, these figures have been decreasing. In terms of employment, 40% depend on the public sector which provides 60% of all economic activity. As a result, unemployment is very low (5%). However, poverty levels have steadily increased over the past ten years.
Community context Communities are synonymous with neighbourhoods, and are the foundation blocks of society. Segregation is extremely high with 95% of all children attending separate schools. There are approximately equal numbers of Catholics and Protestants.
Cultural context The population is originally English, Scottish and Irish. This has resulted in a complex mix of identities which need to be identified and recognised. It has been said that there are 500 different communities. Belfast is famous for its music, its literature, its writers and its actors. This is a rich culture, considering the size of its population. The many NGOs active in Northern Ireland are dynamic and active and most have contributed to build a climate of peace (notably through the EU programme for peace and reconciliation). Members - many of them women - work with victims of violence and in the neighbourhoods located at the interface between communities. A great deal of work goes on in the background, in the interface areas, and especially around issues such as the «peace walls», the marches and parades. Today these parades are less frequent and there are fewer problems associated with them. The unions, the NGOs and the private sector advise the government on issues pertaining to dialogue.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BELFAST SEMINAR
4.2 Presentation by the city of Belfast (Conor Shields) Peace walls - from preventive separation to intercultural expression
Background The walls separating hostile communities («peace walls») were built at first by the army, beginning in 1969. Today they are very much a part of the urban landscape; they have a negative impact as they create a lack of continuity and an image of a city where civil war is just below the surface. The residents themselves built more walls after the army stopped building them.
Objectives Today the walls still separate the neighbourhoods of Belfast distributed among the various antagonistic communities. Some, however, have been transformed from «peace walls» to «walls for peace»..
Results «Walls for peace» involves clearing the surface of walls that separate neighbourhoods and opening them up to members of all the communities, inviting them to freely express their hopes or any other feelings they may have. The results are very specific and fascinating illustrations of the ways people try to re-imagine their relationships and to make the walls increasingly «porous». These are ways in which people are trying to give the walls a more positive aspect.
54 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BELFAST SEMINAR
4.3 Presentation by the city of Belfast (Moya Hinds) Conway Mill, a social and economic experiment in an old industrial site
Background Conway Mill consists of a complex of industrial heritage buildings which have been converted to house a major mixed economy project under inter-community management, with a view to reconciliation. The structure was set up in 1982 as the Conway Mill Development Group, and became an NGO in 1985 - the Conway Street Community Enterprises Project Ltd. The buildings consist of about 30 000m2 in several blocks (2 old mills, 4 buildings and 2 machine workshops).
Objectives The objective of this project is twofold : - to be the interface between the two communities - to be a driving force for local development. The official aims are to stimulate the local economy and the organise services that provide training for young people and adults and support for cultural and creative enterprises. Conway Mill is also a genuine instrument for urban regeneration in Belfast.
Activities and results Conway Mill is a very active structure, deeply involved in social issues. It acts with great determination to promote reconciliation between the different communities that share the facilities and activities in the buildings. It is responsible for the creation of 103 jobs since it was launched and a turnover of 300 places in its training sessions, of which 120 are currently in use. The work of Conway Mill deals with economics, as well as social issues, crafts and artistic creativity. It offers training courses, but also rents out rooms for shows and for office space. It manages a flax spinning museum and a shop where arts and crafts and booklets are sold. The old mill has become a place of shared work. The significance of the building as a symbolic place linked with local identity is obvious, as this is where all the local people once worked. The staff at Conway Mill is mixed, 80% Catholic and 20% Protestant. It has an open door policy. Today there are 19 commercial businesses in Conway Mill involved in a variety of areas including printing, crafts, services, retail outlets, public transport, new technologies and information and communication. Seven community projects also have their offices at the Mill; they are involved in education, health, counselling, culture, museums, after-school help, and research.
Funding : Conway Mill owns the buildings. At the beginning, running expenses were covered by public funds; however, since 1985 access to public funds has been refused. Continued operation of the centre now depends on own resources, through rents, outside support (from the USA), the «Door of Hope» programme. etc.
The development project : Despite these difficulties, but also because of the need to increase own resources and because of the terrible condition of the building, there are plans for a major reconstruction programme. Funding to the amount of 4.2 million pounds has been requested from various partners. However, only a partial response is forthcoming from the National Lottery, and from the «Peace II» programme. The financial situation at the moment is extremely precarious because the State, which has a policy of disengagement in Belfast, does not wish to provide funding for this project.
55 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BELFAST SEMINAR
4.4 Presentation by the city of Belfast (Conor Shields) The New Belfast Community Arts Initiative - using art to promote reconciliation
Background The New Belfast Community Arts Initiative (NBCAI) is a public institution created in 1999; it is based since 2004 in the Cathedral neighbourhood. It is supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and by European funds which it redistributes to the local population.
Objectives The main objective is to support individual and group projects in the arts, in a way that will foster reconciliation between the communities.
Activities and results The NBCAI has involved 60 communities in its main programme and works with 40 other communities through additional projects. For example, the «Poetry in movement» project in 40 schools encourages social dialogue. Since the programme was launched, there have been 1 153 participants in its projects, of whom 1 100 in schools. Ninety per cent of the people with whom the agency works live in socially deprived areas. The aim is to empower these people and to increase the frequency of events that bring together the two communities. There are also frequent contacts with associations and with artists. Artists are also commissioned from time to time by NBCAI. The goal is to develop skills, promote creative work, and build partnerships, in order to strengthen the position of the communities and to give artists the means to grow and develop. Projects are also underway to assist the unemployed and their initiatives are encouraged. The work of the NBCAI focuses on neighbourhoods that have social problems and on minorities.
56 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BELFAST SEMINAR
4.5 Presentation by the city of Belfast (Kyle Alexander) Laganside, a large-scale urban regeneration and reconstruction plan
Background and context Belfast is a small city on the shores of the river Lagan. The Laganside project focused on the neighbourhood around the Cathedral. About 25 years ago it was a safe and quiet area; gradually it fell into disrepair and poverty. Rents were low, and for this reason many groups involved in culture and in the arts settled in this neutral neighbourhood. The Laganside corporation was set up by the State to develop the quays along the river, which at the time were derelict areas of urban decay. Funding was provided by the State: a total public/private investment of 800 million pounds. In 1997, Laganside was officially entrusted with the management of the Cathedral Quarter, one of the oldest areas in the city, located between the river and the centre of Belfast.
Objectives The objectives were: to promote urban development, tourism and the economy, human development and respect for the heritage.
Methods and results The following procedure was adopted : • Stage 1: consultations with local residents and public authorities. • Stage 2 : developing a vision of the neighbourhood constructed around joint utilization, with private funds, and retail businesses in addition to the primary activity (culture and arts). • Stage 3 : finding a new name for the area : the Cathedral Quarter. • Final stage : repairing streets to make space for cultural and artistic events (appearance, lighting, improving confidence, introducing art).
The basic assumption was that public investment must come first, before private investment. When the latter arrives, it will ensure the continuation of restoration work on buildings, such as the «Four Corners» which will be converted into a hotel. Laganside provides grants to businesses and to private owners. The Quarter is now becoming famous as a festival site and for its cultural and artistic events. The participation of associations and local residents was critical to the project’s success. Today, there are concerns that the local population and the associations may leave the area because it is becoming wealthy and therefore too expensive for them. Laganside has therefore purchased several buildings and rents them below the going market rates in order to keep the people and the activities. There are currently 25 groups of artists in the three building that have been restored.
Laganside has now accomplished what it was created to do; its work is done. What lessons can we draw from this experience? The main lesson concerns time: the regeneration of a site requires a generation, or about 25 years - and policy-makers need to be reminded of this. We are talking about renewal and reconstruction that is at once physical, economic, political, psychological and equitable. A programme has to be developed and an infrastructure created to implement it. Naturally, we must have firm financial commitments. A partnership that includes the local population, the government, the private sector and the municipality is also essential.
57 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BELFAST SEMINAR
4.6 Presentation by the city of Belfast (Sean Kelly) The Cathedral Quarter Festival
Background and context Belfast’s industrial history goes back to the 18th century, and its industrial output included ships, linen and rope. The Cathedral Quarter was the most vital in those days (leather tanning, umbrella factories, the first printing presses, etc.) There were pubs, and prostitutes, and the city’s homosexuals met in the neighbourhood, which was associated with liberal ideas. It was a haven for those who did not feel comfortable in any community; sectarianism did not really affect this neighbourhood. For 30 years, Belfast was a ghost town. When evening came, everyone went home.
Objectives The objective was to create a showcase for local art work, and to shake off the negative images associated with the conflict.
Methods and results The idea of a festival was born in 1999 and met with great scepticism because people felt that the Quarter was an artificial construct. After the ceasefire, activities had to be organised in response to a felt need for new modes of artistic expression. It was very important to organise a festival in this area - before this, everything always seemed to happen in the southern part of town. The purpose of the festival was to open up this neighbourhood to all the other neighbourhoods, avoiding differences and divisions. Shows and theatre plays were performed everywhere in the city, not only in theatres; films were projected on walls, and a new people’s culture was born. Small meeting places created an intimate atmosphere. The first festival in 2000 attracted 5 000 people; 53 000 came to the last one which had great media coverage. Today it is a well-established event, but its growth is limited because of the lack of venues. In terms of town planning and development, it has to be said that, for now, regeneration of the Quarter has been primarily commercial (bars, restaurants, etc.). There are a few creative industries, architects offices, IT businesses, but these are not driving the economy. As regards the increase in shared space, it remains for now a long-term dream. The situation is improving, tourism is picking up, and there has been some restoration work in neighbourhoods. We must all be aware that preserving cultural identity in the face of commercial interests is a huge challenge: the impact of real estate developers on cultural identity is more devastating than that of a war.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BELFAST SEMINAR
4.7 Presentation by the city of Naples (Maria Federica Palestino) Monument Month : Naples celebrates its monuments
Background and context There are many monuments in Naples that are not open to the public. The purpose of the «monument month» project is precisely to give the public an opportunity to visit about thirty of these monuments.
Objectives The intention was to make a serious impact on tourism with an event highlighting the architectural heritage.
Methods and results The project was designed to create an innovative tourist product based on heritage goods that had not been previously available to the public. An entire professional, promotional and organisational system was developed, operating in 30 establishments on four streets in the historic city centre, and coordinating opening dates. Local residents were also invited to participate, and school children to act as guides for the public. The «monuments month» project has become an effective tool for development. Economic impact has been far greater than expected, in regard to both heritage rehabilitation and development of activities linked with tourism. However, it is difficult to measure scientifically to what extent these improvements are linked directly to the May event. The following concrete results have been recorded :
- A reconstruction of the interior image of the city of Naples for its citizens - Development of a new social and economic scheme - Integration of good marketing practices by participating administrations. - New tourist services developing around a renewal of the city’s heritage.
58 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BELFAST SEMINAR
4.8 Presentation by the city of Cosenza (Leonardo Acri) The Festival of Invasions
Background and context The city’s identity has been marked by invasions: Since the beginning of recorded history, Cosenza has been subjected to one invasion after another. This has deeply marked the city’s identity, and the people of Cosenza have developed a unique cultural attitude - one of genuine interest in others, hospitality and tolerance.
Methods and results The idea was to create an event that would be a powerful affirmation of an identity trait so counter-cultural and contrary to prevailing attitudes. Based on an awareness of the importance of affirming this identity trait, the city of Cosenza organised an unusual cultural event: for ten days the Festival of Invasions welcomes a wide range of cultural performances that highlight the values of tolerance, acceptance of others, and mutual enrichment. The annual budget is 300 000. The Festival is a huge success (40 000 visitors), but what is really special about this is being able to create an event that is capable of breaking down hostility between communities and actually becoming an asset for development. There is an important moral lesson to be learned from this project: there is evidence that we need in our times to constantly reaffirm the necessity to be open to the other. This attitude is inescapable; and the price of ignoring it is cultural devitalisation and serious ethnic, religious and community conflicts. We also need to point out the effectiveness of the «festive» dimension - an integral part of the «tool box» of urban regeneration.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BELFAST SEMINAR
4.9 Presentation by the city of Krakow (Natalia Biernat) Restoration of the Jewish Quarter in Krakow
Background and context In Krakow, the Jewish community was confined to the neighbourhood of Kazimierz as early as 1495. Despite segregation, the community grew and developed reaching its peak in the 16th and 17th centuries and leaving to the generations that followed an urban heritage that is both rich and unique in global terms (7 synagogues, 3 cemeteries, 500 listed buildings, and designation as a World Heritage site). After this phase of consistent growth, World War II plunged the community and the neighbourhood into a long string of major disasters, both human and urban - extermination, dispersion... The population of this Jewish community dropped from 60 000 before the war to a mere 150 today. Over this period, gradual degradation has resulted in a situation that is drastic in every respect, but especially with regard to the population which has decreased by half since 1950. The architectural heritage was seriously endangered due in part to lack of means and aggressive pollution. The turning point came in the 1990s, with the change in political regime. The renewal of the Jewish quarter began with the return of some families from exile, followed by tourists with a specific interest, and before long the atmosphere of intellectual and artistic fascination grew. Feverish speculation soon followed and continues to this day.
Objectives The main objective of this project was to revitalise this neighbourhood which retaining some control over the changes.
Methods and results The problem today is to reconcile the objectives of social and economic development. A special methodology has been developed, but obstacles are constantly arising due to changes in status (19th district of Krakow), the implementation of a system for dialogue with the local residents, and planning efforts. The main issues have been : - setting up a financial system; - keeping track of new retail businesses; - management of social change; - control of subsidies to private owners.
Today the neighbourhood is transformed and is one of the top «cool» places of the new Europe.
59 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BELFAST SEMINAR
4.10 Presentation by the city of Anderlecht (Benoît Stievenart) The Zinneke Parade - street theatre, identity and heritage
Background and context The Zinneke Parade was born in 2000, the year Brussels was European city of culture; in a way, it is a legacy and an extension of that year. The event was so successful and generated so much enthusiasm that it became a self-supporting biennial event, very much part of the landscape of Brussels, creating a new cultural urban space.
Objectives Zinneke is a project for social and artistic experimentation; it is committed to combating inequality and contributing to an end to hatred linked with identity, racism, totalitarianism and false concepts of community. It invites people to enjoy being together, to shed all those demons and free themselves of negative imaginings.
Methods and results This project is part of the revitalization policy undertaken by the Bruxelles-Capitale Region. Through its involvement with neighbourhoods and municipalities, cultural centres, centres for self-expression and creativity, theatres, youth centres, associations, schools, citizens’ committees, neighbourhood houses, etc., it celebrates the creative powers of the citizens of Brussels and of their partners in this long-term project. The Parade is the climax, but it is merely the result of a long process which combines the creativity of today’s citizens with existing artistic creations. The Zinneke, a street opera, calls upon all the skills of artists and craftspeople of every kind. Workshops, Zinnodes, work for months to create what often took 18 months to design. Everyone has a role to play, defined by their roots, their skills and their aspirations. And there are always volunteers to help out.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
BELFAST SEMINAR
4.11 Presentation by the city of Anderlecht (Benoît Stievenart) The Maurice Carême Library and its role in fostering social cohesion
Background and context The municipality of Anderlecht struggles against severe poverty and social exclusion linked with lack of adequate occupational training, cultural poverty, and lack of democratic participation. An important challenge is therefore to facilitate everyone’s access to culture, because creativity and innovation promote competitiveness and because culture is a factor of social cohesion and civil responsibility.
Objectives The development policy of Anderlecht emphasizes culture and citizens’ participation. Renovation of the Maurice Carême Library has been a major achievement of this policy.
Methods and results The municipality created a network of extremely active cultural focus points: the Centre culturel Escale du Nord, the Maison des Artistes, and the Galerie d’Art d’Anderlecht, the Espace Erasme and the Library, some of which have been installed in historic buildings. Recently, an extension has been added to the Library, built in modern architectural style with transparent materials. This enhances the links between the interior and the exterior and erases the symbolic barrier which sometimes keeps people from visiting cultural institutions.
Erasme Museum The Library - a place of cultural exchanges The Library has become a central element on the city’s cultural landscape. It is involved in a wide web of synergy with schools and associations for ongoing education, with day-care centres and retirement homes, with the Escale du Nord cultural centre and with libraries and municipal services. To ensure its integration in a coherent cultural policy, the Library is associated with the Escale du Nord cultural centre and with the three theatres (Molière, Eugène Baie and the recently completed Salle T.Owen) to form an impressive cultural complex well- adapted to the requirements of the 21st century. The Library has 12 000 books, 180 periodicals, magazines and newspapers, 180 CD-ROMs; 200.000 books are taken out on loan every year; there are 5 434 adult members and over 5 052 readers in the children’s section. There is an adult section and a children’s section, as well as a «baby’s corner» open to parents and nursery teachers. The Library has set up a network with distressed neighbourhoods such as Pertebos, la Roue and Cureghem. It participates in the ASBL « Chèque-lire » scheme which is designed to enable people to buy books (150 people have availed themselves of the scheme so far).
60 THE SIRACUSA SEMINAR 7-8 OCTOBER 2005
THEME 06 : HERITAGE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Heritage : a quality approach to the economic rebirth of urban centres
1 . THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF CULTURAL GOODS HAS BEEN LARGELY UNSUCCESSFUL
An assessment of the current situation has to start from the recognition of this failure which, however, is paradoxically contradicted by the fi nding that architectural heritage is usually a city’s most valuable asset.
2. URBAN REGENERATION INCLUDES THE HERITAGE AND MUST THEREFORE INVOLVE AN INTEGRATED PROCESS
In an integrated approach, which requires a level of consensus, some objectives should be seen as priorities : - physical protection of heritage - development and enhancement of this heritage - research concerning the most appropriate restoration techniques and materials - integration of new functions and uses for heritage goods - promotion of cultural identity - a scheme to promote vocational training and increase awareness - eff orts to promote citizens’ participation - involvement of patrons and sponsors - evaluation of results - eff orts to develop a market for cultural goods.
3. AN OPERATIONAL OBJECTIVE: THE CREATION OF INTEGRATED CULTURAL SYSTEMS
The concept of an «integrated cultural system» includes the idea of «cultural enterprises» as well as that of «local development catalysts». The concept of economic development of the heritage must be viewed in this context, as part of territorial development.
4. SPECIFIC MEANS
Two key means can be highlighted from the outset : - identifying target areas with strong identities and close links to the world of cultural production; - supporting projects that are already «good» , i.e. that meet certain criteria : • a certain level of maturity • a grassroots base • a strong level of local cooperation • the will to develop the area’s strong points • a tendency to stimulate the growth of cultural activities • a desire to be accessible • a fair chance of economic assets for the area as a by-product.
61 5. SEIZING OPPORTUNITIES
Paradoxically, economic globalization has resulted in a strong new emphasis on the local level. Thus, the «local/global» binomial would comfortably integrate cultural heritage as a development object and, ultimately, as a development resource.
6. BASIC PREREQUISITES
To be truly effective, a project for the economic development of heritage must first of all be in an environment where a number of basic prerequisites are already available ; it must : - have a real place on the local market ; - be part of a range of cultural resources that is already diversified ; - have a network of local businesses ; - be able to rely on support from local public stakeholders (elected representatives) and be willing to catalyse energies ; - have a local identity and a local «speciality».
In fact the conditions that will result in «a cultural heritage product» need to be planned by integrating the following : - functions - resources - key players - policies.
7. THE ECONOMIC RELEVANCE OF THE LOCAL LEVEL
The local level must have certain qualities that will make it possible to create a range of «integrated products»; they are summarised in the following list of «strong points» :
- a fertile heritage - concentrated archaeological sites - qualified human resources - folkloric activities and activities expressing cultural identity - quality crafts enterprises - buildings available for conversion - an upward trend in terms of flow - traditional crafts - a culture of urban solidarity
Weak points also need to be identified in order to develop the means to offset them.
8. TRANSFORMING DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS INTO «PRODUCTS»
If a development project is to be economically viable, the appropriate procedure must be followed, with 4 obligatory stages (3 of which will be discussed in detail below) :
- definition of strategic priorities for action - explicit statement of objectives - simulated economic impact - prioritizing interventions.
a/ Developing a strategy is an essential process. It will focus primarily on the historic heritage of the urban centre, but will also highlight other territorial aspects, especially social and economic dimensions. The uniqueness of what is being offered and its special aspects must be emphasised. The project must be perceived as a product in its own right.
b/ It is also vitally important to define development objectives. This definition can be structured along the following lines :
- what type of economic development can be envisaged for the main pieces of the heritage ? - what type of global economic development can be envisaged for the cultural heritage as a whole ? - in what ways will available services in the relevant areas need to be adapted ? - what increase in the level of tourism is targeted ?
62 In this framework, participation in a «global quality system» and in a global development process for cultural goods as a whole should also be targeted. However, the range of operational orientations is very broad :
- conversion of architectural heritage (using buildings in new ways) ; - development and management systems (creating a public/private management agency) ; - integration of existing cultural resources (single integrated system of museums) ; - improved management of sites ; - creating itineraries for tours (thematic tours, integrated activities, etc.) ; - organising events and festivals ; - enrichment of the overall offer of cultural leisure activities ; - creating «package tours» c/ A pre-assessment of the economic impact of a project is essential.
To be accurate, a pre-assessment of this kind must integrate the widest possible range of elements in a global development policy, such as, for example :
- development of a territorial quality label ; - improved overall efficiency ; - increased effect of a feeling of belonging ; - development of territorial infrastructure ; - development of cultural infrastructure ; - implementation of a specific research policy ; - implementation of a policy for development and diffusion of local products ; - development of public transport infrastructure within the inner city ; - implementation of a policy designed to attract foreign investment ; - implementation of a credit policy for local businesses ; - development of an internet portal ; - development of a territorial marketing policy ; - creation of an ad hoc instrument for integrated management.
63 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SIRACUSA SEMINAR
5.1 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (M. Di Guardo) Operational organisation of restoration in Siracusa
Background Despite its rich cultural heritage, the city of Siracusa experienced a period of decline and of abandonment until the 1990s, when a very pro-active regeneration policy was launched to combat erosion of the urban fabric, economic decline, de-socialisation and decreased school attendance. Over a period of 40 years, the population of the inner city had fallen from 27 000 to 5 880.
Objectives There was a shared will to implement an integrated regeneration plan for the city centre of Siracusa, with a view to sustainable development and an attitude of respect for the integrity of the city’s cultural heritage.
Methods and results All key players were mobilised: the city council, the province, the chamber of commerce, the harbour master’s office. Several steps were defined and implemented: Identification of intervention areas and definition of projects; definition of economic objectives and opportunities; development of instruments. Qualification projects were discussed, public and private funding was sought, the URBAN Programme was brought in as of 1996 (EU: 39%; State funds 30%, Siracusa: 13%, Region of Sicily: 0.5%; other partners: 13%). The following examples are a clear indication of the extraordinary success of the regeneration programme - which has yet to be fully implemented - in terms of activity (100 new commercial units have been set up, i.e. 15 000€ per unit of employment), image and tourist appeal.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SIRACUSA SEMINAR
5.2 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (Sergio Campanella) Restoration of an old market and integration of small businesses
Methods and results 1/ The tourist terminal This project illustrates a successful attempt to build a public/private partnership where the former is in charge of the reconstruction of the building and the latter is in charge of management for a specific period, in return for rent. Three stages were defined: rehabilitation, search for a partner, management contract. The plan included the following: an information point for tourists, a travel agency, a conference hall seating 100, restaurant, bar, internet café, tourist bookshop, and other services for tourists. 2/ Assistance to small businesses An incentive programme has been set up for the development of small businesses designed to promote sustainable development; it provides funding in the range of 65% up to a maximum of 40 000€. In all, 78 businesses have received assistance; of these 43 (55%) were new businesses: 30 crafts enterprises, 21 tourist-oriented businesses, 17 related to cultural tourism, 10 tourist services.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SIRACUSA SEMINAR
5.3 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (M. Capodicasa) Conversion of the ancient convent and church of San Francesco da Paola
Background The church went through several stages of degradation: 1705 (reconstruction); 1884 (extension); 1908 (conversion into school); 1968 and 1990 (last of the ten earthquakes it experienced since its foundation). The building has a floor surface of approximately 3 600m2.
Objectives The city council’s intention was to safeguard the monument as quickly as possible, on the assumption that it would be used for a cultural purpose to be defined at a later stage.
Methods and results In the framework of the PIT (Integrated programme for territorialization), a project was developed for an eco-museum of the Mediterranean linking culture, agriculture, botany, etc. The restoration and conversion of the church of San Francesco da Paola was included in this broad concept. Considerable work was necessary, including: structural repairs and underpinning of foundations to make the buildings earthquake-resistant, structural improvements above ground, strengthening structures to improve resistance to earthquakes, installing lifts, façade restoration, roofing, etc. The total cost of this work was 8 M€. 64 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SIRACUSA SEMINAR
5.4 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (M. Cusmano) : Conversion of the Palazzo Impellizzeri into the Palace of Culture
Background The Palazzo Impellizzeri is one of the city’s major monuments, with a surface of about 2000 m2. Restoration became necessary as a result of damage caused by earthquakes and by neglect resulting from the gradual discontinuance of earlier activities.
Objectives The objective was to save this remarkable monument which was endangered as a result of earthquakes, and convert it into a dynamic centre for culture and vocational training.
Methods and results The project included the following: premises for the School of Architecture; a conference centre; premises for cultural associations. The School of Architecture has 1 000 students, 120 professors and an administrative staff of 20. The conference centre manages 150 events per year. Works took place between 1998 and 2000. The new renovated building is valued at 3.3M€ including 2.14M€ in renovation. The economic impact is estimated at 3.9M€ for the School of Architecture; 0.375M€ for the conference centre.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SIRACUSA SEMINAR
5.5 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (Sergio Campanella) Teatro dei Pupi, an enduring cultural micro-enterprise
Background The urban regeneration programme for the peninsula of Ortiggia included a major economic stimulation component. The Teatro dei Pupi puppet theatre, a small family enterprise, was identified as a creative and innovative small business, and supported as a project with a strong impact in terms of sustainable development.
Objectives To develop a range of creative and sustainable small businesses as part of the renewed fabric of Siracusa’s inner city.
Methods and results A global grant was provided to renovate the small premises of the Teatro dei Pupi and the adjacent shop and workshop (puppets and various related items are sold to tourists). The structure enables a family of four to employ one person and to pursue a traditional cultural activity that has a strong impact on tourism.
65 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SIRACUSA SEMINAR
5.6 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (Sergio Campanella) A new micro-business for the restoration of papyri
Background The city of Siracusa decided to implement a policy for the development of economic activities based on cultural excellence. The craftsmen of Ortigia are skilled in the restoration of ancient papyri, and this is one of the island’s strong points.
Objectives and Method In the framework of a plan for the development of specific economic activities in Siracusa, a company was launched for the production and distribution of papyrus products. A shop and a workshop were opened in a tourist area where this business is more likely to be financially viable. Products include a range of stationary, ornaments, cards, etc.
Résults The Siracusa International Papyrus Institute (Istituto internazionale del papiro) is well-known and highly respected at the international level; it is responsible for restoration of papiri for the Cairo Museum in Egypt (the Institute has also donated 50 000€to the Cairo Museum to assist it in the establishment of an integrated restoration workshop). The shop and workshop are in a central location and contribute to the overall improvement of this part of the city which has been the focus of a major renewal campaign. They have been financially profitable and extremely popular with tourists, and are recognised for their originality and for the quality of their products.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SIRACUSA SEMINAR
5.7 Presentation by the city of Siracusa (Sergio Campanella) : Conversion of a derelict inner-city block into an entertainment centre for young people
Background At the heart of the inner-city are a number of dilapidated buildings that are a social risk and a safety risk. A small building was selected for a pilot restoration project.
Objectives To develop a small-scale structure for cultural and festive events at the heart of this historical neighbourhood of Siracusa.
Methods and results Restoration included an outdoor meeting place - a piazza where young people can gather in an appropriate space; a disco, a restaurant, and some housing units. A call for proposals was issued for the project as a whole. The selected project, despite its small size, received an award for best urban project and was widely publicised at the international level.
66 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SIRACUSA SEMINAR
5.8 Presentation by the city of Anderlecht (Benoît Stievenart) Conversion of the veterinary institute : X-ray of an aborted project
Background The old Veterinary Institute is situated in a very poor area. Cureghem is typical of neighbourhoods struck by deindustrialization (65% immigrant population) in a zone of regional interest according to the land allocation plan (PRAS). The Region saw this as an area that could have a lever effect, and imposed a global project for the entire area with a neighbourhood contract and a revitalization scheme involving renewal of public spaces. The Institute, which consists of a listed complex of 19 buildings on 4 ha, is very close to the city centre and to the new train station (Gare du Midi); there is an excellent public transport system. After several years of research, a new partner moved onto the site to develop an eco-center.
Objectives The main objective was to develop an innovative scheme in which the city and its residents would be fully involved. The idea was to revitalize the entire economically deprived area, working in a coordinated and integrated way on the environment, the economic and social dimensions, and sustainable development.
Methods and results The method consisted in the development of a two-pronged programme : 1. eco-technology, and in particular eco-construction / renovation ; 2. information / centre for sustainable development.
After purchasing the building, the city was planning to begin implementing the project by bringing in complementary businesses involved in activities related to sustainable development. The search for private partners was not successful and public partners was not able to support the scheme (end of legislature for the regional authorities). Today, only the municipality of Anderlecht and the International Polar Foundation project are still involved. The park, which originally was to be a public park, has been privatized in the context of traditional housing schemes. There is now a new project which is more likely to result in real estate speculation than in any new venture for economic development.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SIRACUSA SEMINAR
5.9 Presentation by the city of Foggia (Gloria Fazia) Conversion of the old market into cultural space
Background The Via Arpi market is in the heart of the inner-city. Because of its unique features, it was integrated into a cultural itinerary. However, the area was seriously degraded and in terms of health and hygiene the situation had become intolerable. Moreover, the cast-iron structure was in a state of extreme disrepair.
Objectives To revitalize the site - at least in the afternoons and evenings - it was decided to build a structure with a roof, which could be used for cultural and social activities after the market stalls were removed.
Methods and results At present, the site is used in the mornings by retail outlets; in the afternoons and evenings it is used for meetings, exhibitions, concerts and lectures. Before the project began, no attempt had been made to manage the square, and conditions were very bad with respect to hygiene. Today it is continually in use and new activities are constantly emerging and developing, linked primarily with traditional local foods. Most of the people who live in the buildings surrounding the square are lower middle-class, as has traditionally been the case in the inner city. However, some buildings now have offices, and some new owners are financially more open to restoration and maintenance projects.
67 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SIRACUSA SEMINAR
5.10 Presentation by the city of Foggia (Gloria Fazia) Conversion of the church of Santa Chiara into an auditorium
Background This church, which had not been used since World War II, was in a state of major disrepair. Despite its derelict condition, it was still an interesting example of late baroque religious architecture. Because it is located at the very heart of Foggia’s inner city - which is also seriously degraded - the church was included in the URBAN project.
Objectives A new use had to be found for this ancient heritage building, one that would bring new vitality and energy to a neighbourhood that was seriously neglected.
Methods and results The Municipal Council worked with a small group of people, under the leadership of the Planning Delegation which, in turn, was assisted by an external system of technical support. Experts in areas such as art history (who are on the staff of the municipal administrative system) were not involved, except in normal day-to-day office business. Funding was provided by URBAN, HORIZON and the operational Piano Plurifondo (which is specifically intended for religious buildings). This was a public project involving a wide range of agencies, associations, and schools, especially for the diffusion of the principles underlying URBAN. The building has become a very lively auditorium where numerous conferences and exhibitions are held. The Faculty of Arts, which is not far from Santa Chiara, uses the premises for lectures. Naturally, the church is no longer a cultural site open to visitors, aside from the exterior and the general features of its internal architecture; however, it has become a lively centre of cultural diffusion. In the areas surrounding the auditorium, which draws a wide range of users, a variety of new retail outlets have sprung up, adding a new attractive dimension to the whole area. The local residents, who were used to living in an area that did not seem to be part of the lively city, are naturally delighted with the renewal of their neighbourhood, despite complaints about loud noise in the areas where new establishments have grown that attract young people by night.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SIRACUSA SEMINAR
5.11 Presentation by the city of Girona (Joan Pluma Vilanova): A policy designed to boost the vitality of city-centre retail businesses
Background and Objectives The Special Plan for the Conservation and Conversion of the Old Quarter of Gerona (1982) has provided the general outline for the revival of commercial outlets in the inner city. Certain criteria had to be met, concerning in particular the architectural heritage, social cohesion, and promotion of the city’s sustainable development, in a framework of compromise, for the regeneration of the historic centre.
Methods and results Commercial Urban Renewal projects in the streets of the old quarter had to be coherent with relevant administrative policies, and the action plan had to take into account town planning, administrative procedures and budgetary restrictions.
The following conclusions can be drawn based on the experience acquired over the years from these ongoing activities : - The importance of citizens’ participation ; committees to monitor works can include businessmen and residents; they often contribute excellent ideas, both while the works are ongoing and later with regard to maintenance and quality of facilities. - The credibility of the city, which committed itself to this compromise in favour of urban renewal and achieved results with whatever means (in particular financial means) were available within a set time. - The link between the projects and sustainable development, targeting goals such as maintaining quality of life, restoration of the archaeological heritage, culture, promotion of cultural tourism.
An «outdoor commercial centre» has been developed in the historic city centre, extending a pedestrian walkway from the historic quarter to the modern commercial area at the centre of the city, similar to the path that links the little bridges over the river Onyar. The following projects are also noteworthy: clearly marked pedestrian and semi-pedestrian areas; grey cobble stones echoing the nummulitic stones of the ancient buildings; a chromatic chart for the façades of the buildings; guidelines for placing notices and signs; urban furnishings that are in harmony with the environment and use noble materials; special care for maintenance of green areas, however tiny they may be.
68 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SIRACUSA SEMINAR
5.12 Presentation by the city of Ourense (Susana Calvo Picos) The craftsmen’s street - a successful renewal project
Background The urban layout of Ourense is such that the city is divided into two distinct areas: the North side with Plaza Mayor-Capitán Eloy (a rapidly developing business centre, where deterioration is minimal); and the South side with Plaza–Jardín del Posío (where business is in decline,, and deterioration is very significant; there are also major problems such as marginalization and drug abuse). The craftsmen’s street is in this area.
Objectives The urban revitalization scheme consisted in creating from scratch a street where retail outlets are entirely focused on crafts.
Methods and results A detailed strategy was developed, which included a special regeneration plan, a municipal Bureau for Regeneration, consultations with businessmen’s associations, planning, agreement with administrative offices (region, province), URBAN Community Initiative (2006), and four workshops :
1. Physical rehabilitation : regeneration and development of the urban heritage (squares, etc.) 2. Social revitalization : facilities for young people on the South side, and efforts to maintain the level of population 3. Grants for new areas based on quality criteria 4. Local business as the main channel for economic development.
A/ Municipal Programmes for the regeneration of the communal urban environment : improving infrastructure, paving streets and squares, projects to improve the urban environment, rehabilitation projects, etc. B/ Programmes to support the improvement of local retail outlets : Pilot schemes were developed on an experimental basis in two streets - Doctor Marañón and Colón, the latter being in fact the craftsmen’s street. These grants are for sums ranging from 6 000 to 20 000€. A policy was also adopted to allocate premises, in exchange for rent, to selected craftspeople. The objectives were all achieved: there has been a definite revitalization of the area as well as a new sense of urban coherence.
69 THE GRAZ SEMINAR 3 - 4 FEBRUARY 2006
THEME 08 : URBAN REGENERATION, MODERN ARCHITECTURE AND HERITAGE DEVELOPMENT
1 DEVELOPING A HISTORIC QUARTER - THE BASICS
The historic quarter as a «whole»: defi ning identity boundaries
This fi rst point has to do with the concept of urban «whole» or urban «coherence». How do we defi ne the boundaries of what makes a neighbourhood a coherent whole? What are the criteria of such coherence? Where is its perimeter and what are its structural elements? These issues belong to the scientifi c dimension described in the CHORUS programme; they require archaeological, historical, stylistic, and urban assessments which must be coordinated by experts. They also touch upon the question of the identity that determines a feeling of social and cultural belonging. It is important to recognise the coherent system into which modern architecture is to be introduced, and what operational methods can make this happen in diff erent projects.
Identifying «weak spots» in the coherence of the heritage
It is sometimes diffi cult to assess how much room there is for manoeuvring in a modern intervention. The purpose of a pre- assessment is to pinpoint weak spots in the coherence of a neighbourhood’s heritage ; these will constitute opportunities. It could be the presence of a condemned housing block, or that of a building with less historic value, or urban constrictions of one sort or another that have combined over the years to create an enclave and isolate a square, a monument, or a rampart. We need to make a comparative study to see which procedures are eff ective in producing these assessments, as these will often have major consequences.
Various levels of protection (listings, registers, etc.)
By using a coherent system (such as the ZPPAUP plan in France, for instance), it is possible to produce a set of intervention rules, and to develop a series of stages of protection of the heritage (classifi cation of historical monuments, inclusion in additional inventories or lists, etc.). These measures should be left to professionals in the framework of crosscutting and «integrated» projects, in order to avoid blocking the process of urban regeneration by adopting an attitude focused exclusively on the museum dimension or the archaeological dimension, and to allow room for interpretation when dealing with modern architectural work. There is still, however, the question of democratic validation of such rules. It is important to master this stage if we wish later on to be able to check the process of «gentrifi cation» which feeds on the ideology of absolute coherence and the resulting rigidity in urban planning.
70 2 WHY HAVE MODERN ARCHITECTURE IN AN HISTORIC QUARTER ?
Is there a rational justification for the need to include modern architecture in a historical setting ? It is our opinion that at least 3 criteria can be applied in this respect: the question of usage value; the integration of new urban functions; and symbolic relevance.
The limits of usage value of historical heritage: acceptance or rejection
In considering the limits of the cultural heritage in terms of its usage value, two attitudes are possible : The first attitude consists in refusing to step outside the urban fabric and selecting only part of the programmed demand (in other words, of the needs expressed within a given territory) and to accept, for example, only small-scale projects (housing, retail outlets, offices). This approach is the least upsetting to the integrity of the local heritage, but there is a real danger of jeopardizing the urban mix and perhaps even the urban dynamic.
In the opposite approach, planning efforts may be powerless to adapt a real need to the urban historical scale or fabric of a particular neighbourhood. It may then be more appropriate to turn to modern architecture for a solution. It is a fact that a significant number of professional situations, activities, lifestyles, ways of living together, ways of expressing one’s culture are no longer comfortable and no longer find meaning in the traditional architectural forms of the past. Expressions of modern and future cultural forms (activities involving creativity, diffusion, communication, and so forth) are constantly in search of places on a different scale, a different mode in terms of architectural performance. Conversion of historical industrial sites is a relatively appropriate response, but rare in inner-city areas, and very expensive. The goal, then, should be to find the right proportions in order to avoid altering the integrity of local heritage.
The need to integrate new functions into the historical urban fabric (the need for large spaces, constraints due to traffic, etc.)
New urban activities (deliveries, production, stocking) require special logistics; new means of transport (such as wide framed vehicles) create traffic constraints that have serious consequences at the urban level. Parking lots are a problem, and the interweaving of a wide range of networks, including public transport networks, is one of the biggest problems town planners have to face.
The symbolic relevance of modern architecture
- The relevance of an architectural form depends on the relevance of the programme It has always been the case that, in architecture, stylistic features have been in harmony with the state of society at a given moment. This conformity is what made it «modern» at the time. And this is precisely where we find its validity in terms of historical witness; this is what constitutes «heritage» for present and future generations. It is therefore extremely important to plan the programme thoroughly before launching the project, keeping in mind that the project will itself be our contemporary witness. It is equally important to ask ourselves what will give meaning to the architect’s creativity. Thus in Paris we have the example of the formal relevance of the Centre Georges Pompidou - responding with controlled formal innovation to fully internalised cultural innovation - and the counter-example of the Forum des Halles, including its new version, responding with an archaic and confused form to planning that was vague because it had not been fully internalised and owned, socially or economically.
- Manifestation of a community’s collective project in the urban fabric (the dynamic thrust of a political project,...) It is crucial to understand that urban planning, which is essential to any organised democratic society, is the expression of a collective will. In the language of URBACT methodology, this is the time and the place when an integrated scheme can take shape. Our societies cannot afford to ignore this, but they must also be careful to avoid slipping into «technocratic programming» (planning); they must be sure to provide opportunities for the expression of the «collective project», that is to say the «political» project, in the Platonic sense of the word.
71 3 DIFFERENT STYLISTIC APPROACHES TO ARCHITECTURAL INTEGRATION
Not to indulge in theoretical explorations, but to help us analyse and appreciate various approaches to integration of modern architecture into homogeneous historical constructs, we will attempt to establish a parallel with certain linguistic categories which allow us to highlight three major creative modes:
Metaphors are the first approach to architectural integration in reconstruction. This consists in creating «mimetic architecture» which may be described as a «metaphor» : «as if the neighbourhood carried on in time and space». This principle is at work in some historical centres that were gravely damaged as a result of the war (Saint-Malo in France), or were rebuilt in the framework of a rigidly controlled planning system (Le Marais in Paris). Underlying the apparent simplicity of this creative system which focuses on recalling a homogeneous urban model from the past, is a regressive symbolism (medieval cities imitated in Disney World, but also in some new towns). The most trivial forms in this approach can become cheap imitations, «pastiche», and are often disastrous in terms of urban quality.
Metonymy which is «the use of stylistic features present in the neighbourhood», is a second approach to architectural intervention, where the search for a dominant architectural feature is the unifying theme of new buildings. The focus on the whole is an «allusion» to the original urban coherence. This system is most frequently to be found in architecture subjected to the technocratic rules of PLU regulations, or protected sectors where certain materials such as tiles are made obligatory. The result is often a collage rather than an authentically creative work. Nevertheless, in some instances, there can be a serious search, frequently by means of a clever effort to bypass or distort rules, while remaining faithful to «the letter».
Juxtaposition or «the refusal of integration, the policy of discontinuity and counterpoint» is the process which gives priority to the expression of a need, of a current tendency in our society, a liberal trend, when faced with an existing reality that one respects without subjecting oneself to it. It is usually a rejection of «urban culture». This third category produces the best and the worst; it involves either fertilization or imposition. It will be interesting to attempt to decipher the different levels of success of an established modern architecture that does not destroy the patrimonial identity.
Naturally, there are countless intermediate approaches between the three described above, and it would be interesting to develop an inventory of approaches to architectural integration.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
GRAZ SEMINAR
6.1 Presentation by the city of Graz (Hansjörg Luser and Gerhard Ablasser) Integrating traffic issues into a regeneration policy for the city’s historic centre
Background and context Graz is the capital of Styria and the second-largest city in Austria, with a population of 235 000. There are 50 000 students in the city’s four universities. The medieval city was surrounded by fortifications. The earliest mention of Graz is in 1128. In 1791, the city was occupied by the French who destroyed the fort. The city’s layout is organised around the main square - Hauptplatz . Graz is included by UNESCO in its list of World Heritage sites. During the 19th century, Graz experienced a time of major growth and expansion; industries were developed and the city’s districts increased from 5 to 17. During the 1950s Graz was commonly referred to as a «pensioners’ city». More recently, Graz has had the ambition to become a city known for its modern aspects, and not only for its historical heritage.
Objectives The regeneration policy for the historic centre of Graz focused on an effort to integrate and resolve difficulties linked with modern lifestyles, and in particular with traffic.
Methods and results Since 1970, a plan to build a highway has led to a broad consultation on traffic issues. The policy of building underground parking resulted from these, and led to great difficulties linked in particular with underground archaeological sites. Some of these were integrated into the architecture of the parking lots (sections of the ramparts). Some tramway lines, which had been dismantled during the 1960s, have been rebuilt and new ones have been added on as extensions. When Graz was chosen to be European capital of culture in 2003, there was a great burst of architectural creativity: buildings and works of art have contributed to make it more attractive. Today regeneration is bearing fruit: Graz has a lively and youthful inner city with 27 000 jobs and 3 500 residents.
72 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
GRAZ SEMINAR
6.2 Presentation by the city of Graz (Hansjörg Luser and Gerhard Ablasser) The Kunsthaus, Mur island, and the Schlossberg lift; Conversion of the old university into a conference centre
Background and context Graz has a long-standing tradition of architectural creativity, but in our time modern architecture really «took off» when Graz was selected to be European capital of culture in 2003. A great debate took place in Graz to define the theme which would be developed.
Objectives The objective was to revitalize the second-largest city in the country and to renew its international cultural identity.
Methods and results The inclusion of modern architecture in a historical city is not a simple matter. It soon became clear that an outside consultant would have to be recruited. He had a great influence on the policy-makers but also on the technical experts. The issue of acceptance of the projects by the local residents was also raised. Information was made available from the earliest stages on the construction sites, where information points and viewing points were established early in the process. Projects such as Mur Island were submitted from outside, spontaneously, or by artists. Some projects were temporary by their very nature, and have since disappeared; others have remained, including the development of the Schlossberg which has become one of the main tourist attractions in the city. The Kunsthaus is the main highlight. Its shape is a complete contrast to the overall urban structure and yet respectful of it, and creates an astonishing but non-aggressive counterpoint to the surroundings. Its presence radiates over the two banks of the Mur all the way to the city centre, where there is now parking to accommodate visitors.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
GRAZ SEMINAR
6.3 Presentation by the city of Graz (Igor Toichinov) The Commission for the protection of heritage sites
Background and context The operational organization of heritage in Graz is very precisely and specifically structured around the important role of the Heritage Service and of the Commission for Heritage Sites. A law for the protection of the cultural heritage was passed in 1974. This was an important year for the protection of heritage in Austria. Major steps were taken in 1974 and 1975 in many parts of Europe and even across the Atlantic. The law for the protection of the cultural heritage of Graz was passed at this time, and amended in 1980. It was initiated at the regional level. National authorities control the list of monuments and furniture to be protected, and the regional authorities control the sites. The Commission for protection was created at this time.
Objectives The purpose of the Commission is to regulate and arbitrate architectural interventions in the historic city centre.
Methods and results Graz is a unique city in that every period of its history is represented in the city centre. For this reason, the law created 4 zones, one of which is protected and one is a sensitive zone. The role of the Commission is to give recommendations on renovation projects in these zones, whether they concern buildings or sites. The Commission’s recommendations must be accepted by all - major investors and individuals alike. However, the final decision rests with the relevant authorities - the Land. It is a consultative body which includes representatives of various institutions (city council, Region of Styria, University Arts Faculties, technical experts, architects, National Institute for the protection of sites and monuments). Members are appointed for a five-year term. The Commission meets every 3 weeks. Its competence is very broad and it deals with an impressive number of cases, despite the small number of staff and a temporary operational structure (the Commission is made up of civilians who hold other positions). The importance of the Commission lies in its broad-minded approach. It may support a project with a strong modern architectural component if it recognise in the project a genuine relevance in terms of economic development, cultural development, attitude towards social issues or towards identity issues, etc. However, it is a consultative body and has no power to override political decision-makers.
73 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
GRAZ SEMINAR
6.4 Presentation by the city of Graz (Gerhard Ablasser) Inner city traffic
Background and context The old town is not only the cultural centre of Graz but also the economic and administrative centre; it is a place where people meet and a place where people live. Originally it was a pedestrian zone – a place for the people. With the steady increase in the number of vehicles using the narrow streets and squares, these many functions, concentrated in such a restricted space, were seriously disrupted by congestion.
Methods and results It was therefore decided to clear the city centre by turning Herren Street and the surrounding squares into pedestrian zones, and developing a plan for traffic control. A series of measures were implemented to restructure traffic patterns in the inner city with a focus on “soft mobility”. These measures included: government control of all parking space; a traffic-calming scheme in adjacent residential and commercial areas; completing the ring of underground car-parks around the city centre; developing the public transport system; and promoting non-motorised traffic. In addition, special permits are now required to enter restricted areas by car; these are only available to residents of the old town. On all the city’s main streets there is a speed limit of 30 km/h.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
GRAZ SEMINAR
6.5 Presentation by the city of Graz A city-centre shopping mall: integrating a large retail space in an existing block with no damage to the outer shell of the building
Background and context The idea to build an underground car park beneath a monastery and a large shopping centre inside the block originally came from a private investor.
Objectives The idea was to find an investor who would commit the large sums required to restructure the inner city in a way that would take care of parking needs. Investing in the car park is financially linked with the development of major retail outlets in the same block.
Methods and results The construction of an underground car park beneath the monastery was a turning point in the reorganisation of traffic in the historic centre. It is linked in time and in space, but also in the global economy of this area, to the development inside the block of a major shopping centre that is practically invisible from the exterior. The same company owns the underground car park and the shopping mall in the city centre. Some of the roofs were rebuilt at the same time - a project that was mentioned during our meetings. The can park, which is bright and modern, cost 30 M€. It is fairly expensive to park there (1.4€ per hour), but one free hour is provided in exchange for a purchase in any of the shops above. The city council has encouraged this project, based on the novel idea that a large number of parking spaces in the city centre itself (preferably underground) would decrease the flow of vehicles above-ground. Projects involving repairs to the roofs were publicly displayed in the car park in order to promote a debate with the residents. Problems related to traffic and development of the market radius in the historic centre can be solved by integrating quality parking in the vicinity. Public/private partnerships can be a response to the problems of economic and cultural development in the inner city provided that relationships and balances are well managed. In this case, the young developer claims to be interested in quality criteria and has endorsed in part the objectives of the local council.
74 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
GRAZ SEMINAR
6.6 Presentation by the city of Krakow (Halina Rojkowska - Tasak) The New City district
Background and context Krakow’s railway system was built in the middle of the 19th century. It divided the city into two parts: the Western area which includes the Centre, and the Eastern area with Nowa Huta. The historic road connecting the central station to the two parts of the city was no longer sufficient to meet modern needs, causing traffic jams.
Objectives In the early 1990s, following political changes, the city tried to find partners abroad in order to update the railway station and traffic patterns between the East and the West of the city. Because of changes in the partnership, this enormous project will not be completed before the end of 2006.
Methods and results The entire neighbourhood - with its streets that were traced back to the 19th century, its grand bourgeois houses, and its industrial buildings linked with the railway - is currently undergoing radical changes as a result of this project. The new buildings of the Communications Centre to the West of the railway line include the station, the Krakow Gallery (a shopping centre), administrative buildings and hotels. To the East, on the other side of the railway line, new public buildings provide space for the School of Economics and the Opera House, and are integrated into the existing urban fabric. This is one of the most modern areas of Krakow as regards traffic patterns and architecture. A tunnel was built under the station for the tram line, and a road has been built over the railway track. To the East, at the nearest crossroads, where there is a roundabout and a two-level crossing, the remains of an Austrian fortress have been preserved. Trams run through the tunnel, under the roundabout, while the streets are all above ground. The project requires the demolition of part of the fortress, but the remains will be displayed in the tunnel and two caponiers will be installed at the crossroads. In order to build the Communication Centre and the Krakow Gallery on the Western side of the central station, some old buildings had to be demolished, but these did not include listed monuments. The old bus depot was also demolished and replaced with modern buildings. These large structures have only one function - to provide space for retail outlets, services, and offices; they tower above the historical buildings. Because there was no integrated plan, there is no balance between ancient and modern architecture.
Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
GRAZ SEMINAR
6.7 Presentation by the city of Vila do Conde (Manuel Maia Gomes) Modern architecture in ordinary life
Background and context Regeneration of public space in Vila do Conde began about ten years ago; a fairly ambitious programme has continued since then, with what might be described as an enlightened attitude on the part of the local technical bureau.
Objectives The ambition of Vila do Conde is to develop an architecture that makes no concessions to historicism and is truly rooted in local identity.
Methods and results A few examples will illustrate Vila do Conde’s approach to the promotion of «soft» modern architecture: The 3 km long aqueduct takes up considerable space. In the past, there were auto- repair shops and other retail businesses in the spaces between the arches. After negotiations with the individuals who ran these businesses, the spaces were cleared and the monument was rehabilitated. A strategy was developed to avoid heavy traffic in the city centre; it included building small stone walls using ancient techniques. Another process involved identifying all the different styles of architecture in the city; whatever the style, however, traditional techniques are used, and this creates a link between the old and the new. Renewing public space is also a high priority. Some buildings may have windows dating back to the 18th century, and the first floor may have been added on in the 20th century - this can be an excellent example of harmonious juxtaposition of two different styles. There are other excellent examples of small projects, where modern architecture is in counterpoint to the traditional architecture of Vila do Conde: the bank was designed by Alvaro Siza; the Museum of archives and city history is an extension of a 19th century building with a new volume and a very pure form; a steel roof covering a courtyard between two buildings; a «metonymic» project with two repeated features: the rhythm of openings, and pink marble; small variations between squares, etc.
75 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
GRAZ SEMINAR
6.8 Presentation by the city of Naples (Gætano Mollura and Ignazio Leone) Extension of the metro line: a modern project with major structural implications
Background and context The project to build new metro stations in Naples was seen as a unique and unhoped-for opportunity to undertake restoration work in the city centre, and is an actual illustration of a way of integrating modern architecture into the historic city centre. The project was implemented between 1994 and 2006.
Objectives The goal was to solve public transport problems in the city, increasing available public transport within Naples (which has a population of 1 000 000), despite the large area involved.
Methods and results This ambitious project involves about one hundred stations. It is one of the largest public investments in Italy today. It concerns 3 national lines, 4 regional lines, 10 metropolitan lines representing 105 km, 4 tram lines and 6 funicular trains. The network is structured in three concentric rings: the East ring, the central ring, and the West ring. In addition to these three systems, three new lines are to be developed: no. 8 in the West, 9 in the centre (the line serving the 2 museums), and 10 operating as a link to the TGV. In the city centre there are close connections between public transport and town planning. There are 26 stations, of which 11 have already been built, 4 are in the process of construction, and 4 are at the planning stage; 7 more are in the plan. These will be the only instances of modern architecture on historical sites. A private agency has been entrusted with the organisation and implementation of these projects. However, the Municipality has had the task of organising consultations among all those involved in the plan. In theory, there is an agency which is responsible for the heritage, but the University has given a great deal of assistance in making the right decisions. The political context was also unusual, with many politicians involved. The political context was very positive. Facilities above-ground represented, in a sense, a form of compensation to the residents. In the end, it was not very expensive, but it had a huge impact. We also wanted to improve access to the stations by redesigning public areas.
76 THE VOLOS SEMINAR 18 - 20 MAY 2006
THEME 09 : INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE: A NEW TOOL FOR URBAN REGENERATION
THE INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE HAS A SPECIAL ROLE TO PLAY IN URBAN REGENERATION POLICIES
We have seen a wide range of examples, all of them taken from historic centres. The industrial heritage consists of a diff erent category of monuments: relatively recent, they are increasingly recognised as an important component of the collective memory of a city; their restoration and re-utilization provide an exciting opportunity for urban regeneration. Old factories and their warehouses, abandoned after they closed down or relocated, are often seen as derelict parts of a city. They may however be linked to a glorious past, witnessing to an industrial sector economy that once fl ourished, bringing back memories for the local community; sometimes they include valuable elements of industrial architecture or machinery. All of this constitutes «the industrial heritage». These sites were originally placed on the edge of town, or close to the port or to some other means of transport. But today they fi nd themselves at the very centre, where the city is being built, often occupying large pieces of land. In other words, they provide good opportunities for urban renewal, and in a sense they can preserve the memory of a city while at the same time providing space for new uses.
Volos has several good examples of renovation and reutilization of industrial heritage sites through projects launched by the municipality and the University of Thessaly.
A wide range of new activities have become possible as a result of the renovation project; they include industrial museums and cultural centres focusing on vocational training, and socio-educational centres. Controlled restoration techniques provide various architectural approaches combining conservation of the heritage with modern architectural input in varying degrees. These models have since been used in designing plans for the renovation and conversion of other industrial buildings; however, we have to recognise that the development of a network of industrial memory sites, with a sense of synergy among the sites and a coherent image at the level of the city, is as yet a fragile undertaking.
Another important aspect is the need to obtain funding to implement such projects, as well as the issue of the fi nancial viability of new activities. Public funding - especially through the Community assistance programme and integrated approach programmes such as the URBAN programme - is the main source of support at the start of these projects.
However, it was necessary to seek additional funding to complete these projects and to pay for various operational expenses; this was made possible through private/public partnerships and assistance from non-governmental sources.
77 ADDITIONAL OBSERVATIONS
Today, industrial heritage is officially included among immovable heritage goods, side by side with historic and cultural items. It represents in many cases a significant portion of the identity of the working population of a particular community; it also represents a time that was often a prosperous moment in the history of the city. Because of its importance in terms of space and of urban impact, it can be a formidable development tool which can be used in planning the urban regeneration process. The unusual scale of these sites calls for a slightly different approach from that used for conversion of ordinary buildings. Their tough appearance and the appetites they awaken can make them the target of activities that are not respectful and may even be brutally destructive. Guidelines must therefore be issued for their protection as for the protection of all other items in the city’s heritage.
The cultural content of these sites is very specific
The links of an industrial site with local identity are always powerful and contradictory: they bring out positive attachments that are reminders of entire lives devoted to a world of work and to a company, but they can also have connotations tainted by failure and by a sense of abandonment. The cultural aspects of these sites must always be taken into account, beyond the guiding principles of necessary change. Research in the company archives and in the city archives is a source of information that can greatly enrich the process of rehabilitation, as are the people who use the site. The architectural aspects of the site often have great potential. Specific inventories need to be made, similar to those of historic heritage sites; they will help to discern which items or aspects must be preserved. A partnership must be built around the project, and must include archaeologists and historians specialising in industrial heritage, as well as institutions. Institutions and some government schemes usually cover expenses for this type of preliminary action. Urban aspects are the decisive factors. Industrial sites have very special relationships with the surrounding urban environment. Often they define enclaves that are rich in potential, and have to be handled with town planning tools as well as architectural tools. These projects frequently become driving forces for the entire urban environment.
Promoting specific operational aspects :
In view of these special aspects, any development projects we design must be relevant from a cultural standpoint and from the standpoint of heritage conservation, and at the same time they must be consistent with the scale of the site and the often major investments involved. In terms of method, certain structural steps need to be looked at more carefully :
• How do we design a project with a strong identity component (avoid dividing up the site into small units with functions that trivialise the whole) and a powerful impact as a source of drive and motivation for urban regeneration (avoid projects that turn heritage items into «sanctuaries») ?
• What criteria should we use in prioritizing objectives such as conservation, site animation, economic and/or urban development ?
• What shape should we give to a partnership that must include, in addition to local decision-makers, specialists in industrial history, experts in inventories of industrial heritage, and representatives of the people working on the site at the time of project development ?
• On what terms should the implementation of the project be entrusted to specialised contractors who will be responsible for the results and for the development of an integrated scheme that is equally concerned with urban, architectural and economic development ?
• What type of project governance would, in practice, be most likely to promote an integrated approach ?
The development and regeneration of industrial heritage sites appears to provide CHORUS cities with a particularly fertile source of experimentation, one that is eminently relevant to the fundamental issues that concern them, as it necessarily implies the development of a major and far-reaching conversion «project». Because of their size and scope and their proximity in time, such projects often involve the local level much more directly than the restoration of historic buildings which is becoming increasingly consensual.
78 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
VOLOS SEMINAR
7.1 Presentation by the city of Volos (Vilma Hastaoglou and Kostas Adamakis) The industrial heritage of Volos: history and restoration plans
Background and history The history of the urban development of Volos is very unusual, because of the city’s particular geography, stratification and memory. 1/ From the « classical» period, we find the remains of Dimitriada (-294) and Goritsa (+400). 2/ The « medieval» period brought the Ottoman invasion which left Byzantine ruins. 3/ In « modern » times, that is to say since the 1840s, development of the port marked a turning point in the life of the city. The development was located to the East of the medieval village. The modern orthogonal layout goes back to this time. The arrival of the railway in 1912 marked the peak of the city’s development. Volos became one of the most popular cities in Greece. The theatre was built as well as many new neighbourhoods. Population increased from 39 040 in 1920 to the present level of 140 000, with large numbers of migrants from Turkey and Central Europe. A neighbourhood was built for refugees. This was also the end of the Ottoman occupation. 4/ In 1950, a major earthquake completely destroyed the city. Reconstruction in 1956 was based on old blueprints. This was a time of intense redevelopment. In 1980, an assessment showed that many new buildings had been added - hospitals, theatres, hotels, etc.
Method and results Today, the new city is quite simple. It is a coastal town made up of small, low, unspectacular buildings; density is highest along the shore. There is a significant industrial heritage which gives the town its strong identity. Modernization of Volos went hand in hand with modernization of public transport, environmental protection, growth of public spaces. The University is very involved in this policy. The attitude of all-out hard-headed focus on development of tourism has been avoided. As regards the regeneration of industrial heritage, there are 30 industrial buildings, one of which is in private hands. The city’s stratification process has resulted in a predominance of industrial architecture, which is both a potential source of space and a mark of identity for a city that has lost its historic heritage. Therefore this heritage needs to be preserved not only as an element of collective memory but also as a real asset for the future.
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VOLOS SEMINAR
7.2 Presentation by the city of Volos (Kostas ADAMAKIS) The urgent need for an inventory of industrial heritage
Background and history The Volos industries complex comprised 52 factories, well integrated and distributed throughout the urban landscape. Their production covered a wide range of goods, from agricultural and food products to metallurgy. In terms of location, there were some variations over time: Between 1888 and 1903, areas around the train station, the port and the main road were dominant. Later there was some expansion, but never very far from the city centre. Not until the 1980s was there any real awareness of the importance of this heritage: the buildings on the 52 sites cover a surface of approximately 620 000m2.
Objectives The purpose of the inventory was to list and document the various items of this important heritage just before their disappearance.
Method and results The Architectural Council was the first to react and attempted to save this remarkable heritage from destruction. The Council’s role is to determine what to destroy, what to preserve, what materials to use, and so forth. This raises a central question: what constitutes heritage? This work is continued today by a small task force which studies conversion projects. Only 12 factories were destroyed; 40 have been preserved. There are now university buildings in one of the old factories, a school of architecture, a school for mechanical engineering, university offices, etc. Today, Volos has a cutting-edge industrial conversion policy.
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VOLOS SEMINAR
7.3 Presentation by the city of Volos (Vasilis Sgouris) Industrial architecture supporting the cultural identity of a city
Background and history Volos has based its development on its industries and its port. In the 1980’s, industrial activities were almost completely abandoned and the sites were no longer in use. There was a growing awareness of the importance of this heritage of a relatively glorious and economically prosperous past - both in cultural and in territorial terms. The sites were also interesting because of their strategic urban location.
Objectives To implement a development strategy using abandoned industrial buildings in order to re-awaken a sense of local cultural identity that had been weakened by the loss of the city’s historical heritage.
Method and results The two neighbouring districts of Volos and Nea Ionia came together to develop a joint programme which was to be implemented between 1994 and 2001, but will now continue until the end of 2006. Three areas of Volos are involved (Palia, Agioi Anargyroi, Epta Paltania), and 2 areas of Nea Ionia (Prosfygika et Tzamaliotika). In total this covers an area of 1.8 km2, and a population of 8120. Initial data: 2 historic centres are involved (Palia and Prosfygika); the urban fabric is seriously degraded; major industrial sites have been abandoned; social infrastructures are lacking; the economy is in crisis in large parts of the territory; unemployment is rife. Means: efforts to develop activities that support sustainable development; creating new job opportunities; renewing a sense of identity within the area concerned; strengthening social cohesion. The main focus points of conversion in this huge area were the following: the Refugee Centre; the Social Centre; the nursery school; the silk workshops; the sports and youth centre; the Tsalapatas brickyard; the central square in Palia; the Energy Centre; the Social Centre for the handicapped. The assessment and the results are presented under the headings of ERDF measures: Measure 1 : Development of new economic activities: purchase and restoration of the Tsalapatas brickyard; renovation of the old pesticide plant; renovation of the old silk factory. Measure 3 : Social infrastructure and urban renewal : workshop for the mentally handicapped in the old strychnine plant ; Sports Centre and Youth Centre in the cotton factory of Adamopoulos ; social infrastructures in Prosfygika; renovation of public areas in Palia; conversion of Riga Fereou street into a pedestrian zone ; renovation of public spaces in Prosfygika. The total budget was 11.5 M€, of which Europe contributed 8.6 M€ and the State 2.9 M€.
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VOLOS SEMINAR
7.4 Presentation by the city of Volos (Vasilis Sgouris and Apostolos Alpous) Conversion of the Tsalapatas brick factory into an industrial museum
Background and history The Tsalapatas brickyard was well-known in the region. It was established in 1925 by the Tslapatas brothers, and was active until 1975. It consists of 6 000m2 of buildings on a site of 2.1 ha. There is on the premises a Hoffmann oven which is unique in Europe. In strictly industrial terms, several production systems can be recognised, adapted over time to changes in the energy system from steam to electricity.
Objectives The site is rich in popular and technological memories, has an enormous amount of space, and is extremely well situated. The objective of the project was to make full use of this site to re-energize the area and make it more attractive, as well as organizing and managing a network of sustainable enterprises.
Method and results The idea was to create a large multi-cultural complex dedicated to the industry and crafts heritage, and to the production and diffusion of cultural goods : - Museum of industrial archaeology - Creative crafts workshops (20 units) - Exhibition areas - Small theatre - Meeting places (coffee shops, restaurants, retail outlets, etc.).
The investment budget was 3.1 M€; considering the size of the areas involved, this was very cost effective. The architectural quality of the finished building, as well as the modern adaptations and extensions, the materials and the landscaped grounds, were unanimously applauded. Today the whole system is almost completed and running; the archaeological museum will be inaugurated in the summer of 2006. The presence of this museum in the city is a great success, and the number of visitors to the restaurants and cultural areas is high. In other words, social appropriation of the site has been successful. 80 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
VOLOS SEMINAR
7.5 Presentation by the city of Volos (Georgios Gangas) Conversion of a pesticide factory into a regional energy centre
Background and history The original factory was built in 1963 by the Ministry for Agriculture. It was used to produce agricultural pesticides, particularly for cereals, but also for trees and other products. In recent years it was not used to full capacity; it was finally closed down and handed over to the municipality in 1994.
Objectives The establishment of the Energy Centre responded to a local need, both professional and private, but also to moral considerations. Creating an Energy Centre in place of a factory that had negative associations helped to change the image of the urban area in which it is located.
Method and results The intent of the city council was to transform the factory into a Regional Energy Centre in order to : - improve energy infrastructures, - improve energy management and especially energy conservation, - promote alternative energy sources.
This small structure is very active ; it has been refurbished in a way that is architecturally interesting, and the use of energy in the building has been studied with special care. The budget for this project was 0.365 M€.
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VOLOS SEMINAR
7.6 Presentation by the city of Volos (Vasilis Sgouris and Apostolos Alpous) Conversion of a silk factory in Nea Ionia into an industrial museum, an industrial centre and an administrative and cultural centre
Background and history This was a flourishing industry in Volos and in Nea Ionia in the early part of last century. It survived in this factory until 1992. The factory comprises 2 750 m2 of floor surface on a 4 000 m2 lot. It is located in a very central position in the city.
Objectives The city was hoping not to lose these remains of an activity that played an important role in Nea Ionia; former workers still had many memories and associations with the site. At the same time, the city wished to use the site for a sustainable activity.
Method and results The factory was purchased by the municipality of Nea Ionia with support from the Greek government (Ministry for the environment, planning and public works).
Restoration of the silk factory was undertaken with the objective of creating a multi-functional centre comprising the following : - a recruitment centre - a vocational training centre - a start-up service for new businesses - a cinema and a theatre - a small site museum dedicated to silk-producing technologies - restaurants, places of entertainment and leisure activities.
Today the building is a lively and busy place, which has become a major landmark in this urban area. It attracts tourists as well as local people and businesses. The budget was 1.7 M€.
81 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
VOLOS SEMINAR
7.7 Presentation by the city of Volos (Yannis Gregoriou, Vasilis Sgouris) Conversion of a strychnine factory into a workshop for the mentally handicapped
Background and history This building was built in 1932 by the Ministry of Agriculture. It was used for the production of strychnine and in particular of rat poison. This activity ceased in 1976 when use of strychnine was banned. The building was then used for storage and finally handed over to the municipality in 1994.
Objectives The issue here was both functional and symbolic: the building contained areas that were potentially useful and appropriate. Given the fact that its function would have to change in any case, it could be used to create a high-impact social inclusion project.
Method and results The conversion programme involved creating a workshop for mentally handicapped people, to be managed by an association. This new function responded to the two objectives mentioned earlier: change of use and change of image. This multi-functional workshop, which provides opportunities for mentally handicapped people to acquire new skills, is now fully integrated into the urban and economic life of the area: its products are sold in local crafts shops. Mentally handicapped people are admitted, as well as other people with special needs. This conversion has had very positive results and was very inexpensive: the total budget came to 0.38 M€.
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VOLOS SEMINAR
7.8 Presentation by the city of Volos (Georgios Gangas and Vasilis Sgouris) Conversion of the former Spierer warehouse into a cultural and administrative centre
Background and history Built in 1920, the Spierer tobacco warehouse is a very impressive complex at the centre of the city. The building is set on a stone base. The external structure is built entirely with local stone, and the interior is made of wood (floors, beams, posts and frame).
Objectives The objective was to make the best possible use at the lowest possible cost of this high quality building, located at the very heart of the city, using it if possible for communal activities which would also include a memory component.
Method and results Restoration work was done between 1992 and 1998 by the city of Volos. The new functions include the following : - a municipal administrative centre - a cultural centre, with a large hall for meetings, conferences and lectures - the municipal archives and a documentation centre - exhibition areas - a vocational training centre The architectural interventions are spectacular and very successful: most floors were preserved in their natural state, while some were removed in part, to create openings connecting different levels (the main conference hall, for instance, is on two levels). Part of the building is used for a major documentation centre and archives; these are open to the public and important documents concerning the city and its architecture, are displayed in attractive and interesting ways. The School of Architecture also occupies a part of the building. Overall, this massive and initially «opaque» building now has an important place at the very heart of the city where it plays a stimulating and exciting role.
82 Project outline n° : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
VOLOS SEMINAR
7.9 Presentation by the city of Volos (Stella Demesticha) Setting up a network of industrial museums in Greece
Background and history The network of museums of industrial science and archaeology comprises today a number of important elements : - The Tsalapatas brick factory and bricklaying museum in Volos - The silk museum in Volos - The museum of water as a source of energy - The olive oil museum in Lesbos - The marble museum in Trinos - The typographical museum in Thessalonika.
Objectives PIOP is a foundation set up by the Piraeus bank, as a non-profit activity, to manage and promote the industrial heritage of Greece. Its objective is to support museums with original themes by means of scientific and cultural coordination and by streamlining the museums’ management methodology.
Method and results PIOP currently manages 3 museums and is planning to include 5 more. The issue of a financial return is not taken into consideration in setting objectives for these structures. The only real objective is to improve public satisfaction and attendance, but even this goal is not allowed to become an absolute constraint on the quality of the contents. Network activities have a positive impact on the following aspects: management, selection of events, publications, data processing, technical work, assistance to the secretariat. These structures are permanent institutions, functioning in efficient and active ways, both as regards the services they provide to the public in terms of communication, and with regard to their own scientific pursuits. The pattern is the same for all the museums: they tend to be somewhat isolated in rural areas, they have an original theme, they have workshops and conference rooms in addition to the normal space requirements of a museum. PIOP personnel coordinates the projects from headquarters in Athens, but local teams are autonomous with regard to day-to-day management, especially of cultural and scientific issues. Inclusion of Greek industrial museums in a special network is a guarantee of efficiency with respect to tourist management, but also with respect to communication with the public at large.
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VOLOS SEMINAR
7.10 Presentation by the city of Volos (Aegli Dimoglou) Industrial heritage - an integral part of the archaeology of Greece
Background and history The emergence of industry, technology and crafts as actual museum themes is very recent in Greece, and only dates back to the 1980s, almost 20 years after the term «industrial archaeology» was introduced into international bibliography. This is because Greece did not experience an industrial revolution like the Western nations did, and instead went through a process of individual industrialization. Certain cities were specifically targeted by particular technical developments: gasworks in Athens, textiles in Edessa, mines in Lavrio, and so forth. The following dates mark some of the major turning points for industrial museums in Greece : 1986 : The oil mill in Lesbos 1987 : Colloquium on the topic of industrial architecture 1989 : First inventory of industrial heritage in Greece 1988 : Congress at the national research institute.
Objectives The overall purpose of these projects is to establish the Greek industrial heritage as an academic subject in its own right, fulfilling the criteria of international expertise and documentation.
Method and results Work focused on three main priorities: theory and definitions; cartography and documentation; public awareness. The first major restoration project was the restoration of the oil mill in Lesbos in 1987. The first inventory of the Greek industrial heritage was launched in 1989. Two exhibitions were organised in 1987 and 1990 sponsored by the Hellenic Industrial Development Bank. The TICCIH (International Committee for the Conservation of the Hellenic Industrial Heritage) was created in 1992, and organised a series of conferences (1993, 1994, 1995, 2000…). As European capital of culture, Thessalonika was designated European capital for culture in 1997, and hosted that same year the 10th International Congress of the TICCIH on the theme of the sea. The DIKI, Centre for history, documentation and archives in Volos, integrates this theme in its work. Universities also play a central role (National Polytechnic, Centre for Neohellenic Research, etc.). Overall, this rapid move made it possible to focus interest on the industrial heritage, even bringing in industrial stakeholders who are now beginning to integrate archives and museums in their buildings.
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VOLOS SEMINAR
7.11 Presentation by the city of Naples (Gætano Mollura) Conversion of the industrial site of Bagnoli
Background and history Bagnoli is a huge multipurpose industrial site that gradually deteriorated over the years. Located north of Naples, the site was originally a gigantic conglomerate structured around 3 industries: steelworks (Ital Sider), chemicals (Feder Consorci), and cement (Cementir). The area has many geographic advantages, including the Vesuvio’s park, the beach and access facilities. The archaeological context is rich, with the nearby site of Cuma dating to the time of Augustus, and all the mythology linked with Naples and its many legends. Its position on the shore, north of the bay of Naples, is very favourable to urban redevelopment and in particular to the development of leisure activities as well as economic enterprises.
Objectives For the municipality of Naples, the objective was to use the identity of a vast site that was once an industrial estate to develop a new urban zone, and in the process to renew the identity of the city of Naples with a new emphasis on technology, science and education. On the cultural, social and economic levels, the stated objectives were the following: to promote science, exchanges and dialogue among peoples; to develop links between town planning and the city’s marketing schemes; to initiate a vast movement of economic development and innovation on the entire Neapolitan territory; to boost activity and stimulate the creation of new economic enterprises; to accelerate the process of democratic governance.
Method and results The choice of science as the main theme for development was made at the outset, and was designed to weave links between citizens and science, and remain consistent with Bagnoli’s identity as a technical site. The huge potential provided by the large open spaces made it possible to create a dynamic new urban development zone. Thorough and time-consuming preliminary studies were conducted before embarking on this project, as well as consultations, planning, confirmation of proposed ideas, and so forth. The project for the conversion of the industrial site of Bagnoli goes back to 1970 when the city purchased the site. The cost of reclaiming the land was estimated at 75M€ of which 30% came from the private sector. The operational plan goes back to 1985; the official launch of operations was in 1995 when the master plan which is now being progressively implemented was completed. The strategic impact of this project on Naples and the region assumes the participation of local stakeholders; this is a constant concern in terms of the democratization of the decision-making process. The programme is structured around several areas, each with a specific focus: leisure and entertainment in the area of the beach (35ha); science in the City of Science (120ha); culture in the City of Music; the environment in the research centre on green turtles; sports in the sports grounds (36ha); and urban planning in the development zone (175ha). The total area of reclaimed space is approximately 400ha. The City of Science is the flagship of this vast programme symbolic of the process of conversion of the industrial heritage in the context of urban regeneration. This component dates back to 1983, when a foundation was established. In March 1997, following the final adoption of the master-plan, the project for the development of the City of Science was launched. The City was opened to the public in 2001.
The programme of the City of Science is structured around 4 strands : - the Science Centre, with 11 000m2 of usable space; - the Conference Centre with a capacity of 2 800; - the Business Centre with a start-up system for 52 businesses; - the Vocational Training Centre, with 8 multimedia areas and 10 science laboratories.
The main industrial buildings have all been preserved: old warehouses, workshops, etc., including an old plant for the production of sulphuric acid.
The main items in the budget can be summarised as follows : - The entire development consists of about 70 000 m2 of which 35 000 m2 are covered. - The total investment budget was 50 M€. - The operating budget is between 15 and 20 M€ per year. - The permanent staff, which includes the ongoing management team, consists of 160 full-time employees; about 100 additional individuals are hired on special contracts.
Since the site opened five years ago, there have been in total 1 200 000 visitors, i.e. about 300 000 per year.
The City of Science is currently organising 200 projects for a total of 23 M€. These include international cooperation projects such as a science centre in Palestine and one in Bagdad.
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7.12 Presentation by the city of Krakow (Halina Rojkowska - Tasak) Conversion of the tram depot into a public transport museum: a project with strong social and economic dimensions
Background and history The neighbourhood in question is Kazimierz, designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage site because of its particularly rich cultural heritage linked to the Jewish and Christian traditions. Since 1990 it has been revitalised and has now become a lively and «cool» cultural quarter. The project concerns a building in the Saint-Lawrence block, in the southern part of Kazimierz, an area with good access to the city centre and the rest of the city. During the second half of the 19th century and the early part of the 20th, industrial buildings were built in this area, as well as technical infrastructures (gasworks, municipal communications centre, electric power station, the Vistula boulevards, the bridges over the Vistula and their access roads, etc.). Today, these buildings have no productive role; they have lost much of their urban and historic meaning; post-industrial zones are now being prepared for redevelopment or ready for conversion.
Objectives The idea of transforming the site into a museum of public transport seemed obvious and would protect the site from threatened destruction.
Method and results The content of the project and its central theme is the «History of Motorization», expanding into the history of science. The building was a warehouse for trams which fell into gradual disrepair between 1970 and 1980. It is extremely well-situated and is part of an old complex of historic industrial buildings, making it an ideal location for a museum. Depots of all kinds of streetcars can be found in this area, from trams pulled by horses to electric streetcars. The building’s architecture is based on wooden structures (half- timbered walls) which is something unusual in this region. The entire complex has been listed as a «historic monument». - 1985 : the grounds of the depot are listed as a historic monument. - 1993 : development of the Kazimierz Action Plan with the European Union ECOS programme. - 1996 : conversion begins (financed by the National Fund for the Development of Historic Monuments in Krakow) - 1997 : joint funding by the city of Krakow begins. - 1998 : establishment of the Museum.
Planning for the conversion work was detailed and precise, and included the following schedule : - 1996-2006 : RESTORATION OF THE OUTER SHELL (walled and covered areas).
Main stages included : - 1996-1997 : restoration of the outer shell of the garages - 1999-2000 : restoration of the outer shell of the workshops - 2000-2006 : refurbishing of adjoining warehouses (brick buildings, repair shops, hangars, electric power station for the trams). - 2007-2013 PROGRAMME : COMPLETION OF DEVELOPMENT WORK
• Conversion of the hangar and adaptation to the needs of exhibitions (exhibition of typographical art in Krakow). • Conversion of the electric power station and adaptation as storage space for historic streetcars. • Reconstruction of Saint Lawrence Street including reconstruction of tram tracks (reconstruction of stone paving and of the shunting system). • Redevelopment of the Museum courtyard, formerly the shunting yard (stone paving and infrastructure). • Modern heating system installed in building B (adapted for use by the administration, the Museum’s scientific workshops, and for exhibitions of traditional crafts).
Today this is a very successful museum. It has now been extended to include exhibitions of crafts, and has become a tourist attraction in its own right. In the initial period, visitors were few (5000 in 1992, then 20 000 in 2003); by 2005 they had increased to 34000. Nevertheless, the project is now in trouble because of a lack of European funding: the 2004-2005 instalment was not paid despite excellent reports, because of a lack of long-term local investment. There is a fulltime staff of thirty. The reconstruction cost to date has been 1.9 M€ paid by the city of Krakow. The unpaid instalment is of 3.3 M€ in joint funding by the city and the European Union.
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7.13 Presentation by the city of Belfast (Paul Harron) The regeneration of the industrial heritage sites
Background and history Belfast is built on a Celtic site which is thought to date back 3000 years but has no significant archaeological remains. Over time, Belfast specialised in the construction of large ships, the most well known of which was the Titanic. Up to 35 000 workers were employed in the shipyards. The dramatic context of the civil conflict has left its mark on the community: 30 000 dead and 14 000 wounded over this period. The State has set up an agency for regeneration -Laganside- and provided it with considerable funding.
Objectives The objective is to rebuild not only the city but also its cultural and social identity. The industrial heritage is one of the channels for this renewal and has contributed to «cement» communities that share memories of industrial activities which have now disappeared.
Method and results A number of areas were identified for redevelopment and built into an integrated approach :
The industrial Gasworks and the surrounding neighbourhood Artistic and architectural projects contributed to change the image of this area. Decontamination was one of the major problems to be addressed, because of the scope of former industrial activities. Integrated activities were introduced in the warehouses (hotels) in the context of a mixed economy policy (public/private projects).
The Cathedral Quarter A lengthy process was necessary to achieve real change in this neighbourhood. Today, the University of Ulster’s Art college is located here, as well as various other cultural projects. But the syndrome of «neglected space» can still be felt in the area. Residents are beginning to move back in, although integration of the housing element was and is difficult. There was local pressure for high quality architecture. Local participation has grown. In the end, cultural activities have contributed most to this area.
Laganside For Laganside, the determining factor was public support. After years of attempts at in-depth regeneration, the private sector appears to be taking up the challenge. This is one area where large amounts of money have been used.
Odyssey pavillion Art projects, including some large pieces, have been the channel for renewal in this area. Most of the funding came from the British national lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. The New Odyssey Pavilion was funded through he lottery’s Millenium Fund on the east side of the River Lagan. There are also sports facilities on the site.
The Titanic neighbourhood This neighbourhood has special symbolic significance for Belfast. It has an area of 20.9 acres (about 10 ha). The developer is a private company and has hired architects in London. The question is, what is the best way to use the industrial buildings? The story of the Titanic is a tragedy that marked the beginning of the decline of the port and of the shipyards. When the site was abandoned the predominant feeling was one of defeat.
The Northern Ireland Science Park A new development area with a scientific theme has been planned in the area adjacent to the Titanic neighbourhood.
In physical terms, the results are noteworthy. It is too early, however, for a final assessment of urban regeneration in Belfast, as it depends to a large extent on the successful social coexistence of the two communities.
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CONCLUSIONS
Historic heritage plays an increasingly important role in our cultures. It refl ects our identities, it fashions the landscapes of the ancient centres of our cities. But the use we can make of it in the context of our urban regeneration projects has often been underplayed. In the course of its activities, the CHORUS network has attempted to highlight the many ways in which cultural heritage has been reclaimed by our modern world - from its preservation in full respect of precise rules, to its development and aff ectation to new uses and its role in regeneration. The economic value of heritage has been highlighted as well as its importance in eff orts to maintain social cohesion within our cities.
We have been helped along the way by input from professionals and experts who focused more particularly on certain priorities: these are the foundations of the Good Practice Charter of the CHORUS network which, we hope, will be accepted by urban development players throughout Europe and beyond.
Development of cultural goods is necessarily dependent on previous knowledge of its history and of the operational procedures that will be required for its restoration. This learning process must be implemented under the supervision of scientists who are well versed in the techniques of inventories.
The involvement of professionals from the world of heritage conservation is both a guarantee that appropriate action will be taken in regard to heritage items, and that interesting openings will be there in future for young people to whom a range of academic careers and training opportunities is available.
At the heart of these issues is the central question of the balance between three major dimensions - protection of goods, development through appropriate utilization, and full integration into a global strategy for urban regeneration.
It is abundantly clear that heritage work requires specifi c funding for rehabilitation measures; these are always complex and require high level expertise combined with political will. Financial incentives are the guarantee of commitment on the part of private owners - another aspect of citizens’ participation without which there can be no successful heritage programme.
Participation highlights the problems of involving society as a whole in the actual dynamics of the project. It is also expressed in the cultural approach, the identity-conscious approach, which underlies today all urban regeneration projects and must stand in opposition to the standardization of historic city centres. Field work has shown that heritage can play a role in maintaining social ties and in some cases in restoring social cohesion.
Heritage can also be the impetus for sustainable economic development ; however, this approach has to take place in the framework of a deliberately and specifi cally constructed project involving the wider territory rather than merely a particular building or neighbourhood.
Modern architecture plays a major role in our cities and in some cases has been known to completely renew a city’s identity. But it can also be a tool for heritage development - paradoxically, only in the context of powerful and uncompromising expression. It can be equally eff ective through large symbolic gestures and in ordinary daily life.
Industrial heritage, on the other hand, plays a role in rehabilitation and no longer in the creation of new buildings. Today industrial heritage is fully recognised as an element of heritage in its own right, one that needs to be preserved with the same care as ancient buildings with historic value. The size and fl exibility of industrial sites give them special value and make them particularly eff ective in urban development.
Some of the examples studied by the network were particularly interesting :
- The importance of preliminary studies was illustrated in a special way by the cities of Bastia, Siracusa, Naples, Vila do Conde and Krakow ;
- Training opportunities, by Toledo, Bastia and Anderlecht ;
- The balance between preservation, development and regeneration, by Toledo, Krakow, and Anderlecht ;
- Funding problems, by Bastia, Graz and Siracusa ;
- Cultural approaches, by Vila do Conde, Cosenza, Foggia as well as Anderlecht and Naples ;
- Economic approaches, by Siracusa, Belfast, Girona and Ourense ;
- The value of social ties by Belfast, Cosenza, Vila do Conde and Naples ;
- The role of modern architecture, by Graz, Naples and Vila do Conde ;
- The importance of industrial heritage, by Volos, Belfast, Naples and Krakow.
Cultural heritage includes architectural heritage which is therefore not merely urban decoration. It clearly plays an active role in urban regeneration projects with an impact on economics, social issues, and identity.
C.H.O.R.U.S. has attempted to highlight concrete aspects and to defi ne a few good practice rules; the network partners will commit themselves to implement these rules in the framework of the kind of lasting and integrated approach recommended by URBACT.
More broadly, the diff usion of these concepts and rules appears particularly relevant today as we begin to build an enlarged Europe where needs are considerable, both in material terms and in terms of knowledge, and where the need to reinvent social models will require contributions from all fi elds.
9 Crédits photos :
Agence APIC / couverture & p. 29 P. JAMBERT / pp. 13, 29, 30 JM. OLIVERAS / p. 32 L. NIFOSI / p. 34
Conception graphique et mise en page :
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