5.8. Current State

Section of Agro-Hub, New Housing Developments and Surrounding area

Fig. 191 Drawing: Author

In this section we see how different activities, starting with river activities, urban agriculture, market, administration, apartment units, common areas, central garden, cohabit and complement each other and thus create a new urban ecosystem that contributes to the development and improvement of city life.

Perspective view of the Agro-Hub, New Housing development and Urban Farming

Fig. 192 Drawing: Author

The revitalization of the industrial zone is taking place gradually in accordance with the urban and social needs, but also the economic possibilities of the city. Thus, in the final phase, there is a complete revitalization and rehabilitation of industrial plants and industrial land. In order to improve and stimulate the economy based on local products and production, it is important to provide adequate education and training and thus encourage the participation of young people in this process.

With this in mind, the Educational-Hub is proposed, which will consist of a craft and agricultural school. Young people who decide to engage in a craftsmanship or agriculture, will have the opportunity to improve skills and knowledge through various programs. Doing the practice along very skilled craftsman and producers at Agro-Hub or Craftsmanship-Hub will significantly help them to improve the skills, but also expand their contacts. After graduation, young people will have the opportunity to become part of the Craftsmanship-Union, which will provide them with production space for free for two years. In this way, young people will have the opportunity to improve and expand their business through the opportunities provided by the Craftsmanship Hub.

In addition, the project proposes a new Cultural Center that aims to improve the social and cultural life of the city. In the conversation with the locals, primarily the young population, as one of the main negative characteristics in the city is the lack of social and cultural events, as well as places for gathering, recreation and sports activities. In addition, insufficient mechanisms and a very weak policy of protection of culture and cultural property of the city, led to the devastation of old houses, traditions, as well as other historical values of the city. Therefore, the new cultural center aims to promote, rehabilitate and preserve the culture of the city, but also to improve social life through various forms of activities and events.

Industrial land, once sealed and unused, is now becoming full of life and activities through the improvement and development of green and public areas and the revitalization of nature. One of the city’s rivers, which flows under industrial buildings and land, is now becoming part of the city again, decontaminated and accessible to all citizens. The new public spaces provide quality spaces for recreation, sports, culture, catering.

In this way, the former wood processing factory becomes the backbone of quality social, cultural and economic life, as well as an integral part of the city’s urban structure, putting man and nature in the forefront.

Master Plan of the Industrial Zone

Agro-Hub Craftsmanship-Hub Education and Training-Hub Cultural Center