UNECE Team Visits Mykolaiv to Present Concept Masterplan for Sustainable Urban Development
16 July 2024, Mykolaiv, Ukraine - A delegation from the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and One Works Foundation, visited Mykolaiv to discuss the Concept Masterplan for the city’s sustainable urban development and the related pilot projects. This visit was a key milestone in the UN4UkrainianCities project, which aimed to enhance urban planning and facilitate investments in sustainable infrastructure in pilot Ukrainian cities.
The team began their visit with a tour of significant areas in Mykolaiv, including the historic city centre, Flots'kyi Boulevard riverfront, the Shipyard site, and Temvod district. These locations were central to understanding Mykolaiv's urban fabric and held great potential for revitalization efforts. As a green city, Mykolaiv boasts a rich tapestry of parks, gardens, and tree-lined streets that contribute to the well-being of its residents and the overall urban ecosystem. The team recognized that these green assets, which have taken decades to cultivate, are far more valuable than any building that can be constructed in a matter of years. In the context of urban development, it is crucial to prioritize the protection and enhancement of these green spaces, ensuring that they continue to thrive alongside the city's built environment. The Concept Masterplan for Mykolaiv places a strong emphasis on preserving and integrating these green and blue (rivers) assets, understanding that they are essential to the city's long-term sustainability and resilience.
Following the site visits, the delegation met with Mayor Oleksandr Sienkevych, Deputy Mayors and the City Council to present and discuss the Concept Masterplan: Vision and Strategic Proposal. This comprehensive plan outlined innovative strategies for Mykolaiv's post-conflict reconstruction, integration of green and blue infrastructure, and initiatives for economic revitalization.
“We’re building the city of our dreams, but it must be grounded in reality. Our most valuable resource is our people, and this masterplan should focus on attracting them to live in Mykolaiv. As we recover and rebuild, we must address the crucial question: what will make people choose Mykolaiv as their home? This is the challenge we’re addressing with UNECE and OWF support.”
The visit underscored the importance of on-the-ground engagement in urban planning processes. By experiencing the city firsthand, the team gained deeper insights into Mykolaiv's unique character, history, and culture. This understanding was crucial for developing strategies that aligned with the city's identity and aspirations.
Mykolaiv, as one of the pilot cities in the UN4UkrainianCities project, demonstrated significant potential and a strong willingness to evolve and build back better. The city's openness to development and change positioned it well for implementing innovative urban solutions.
As the day progressed, the UNECE team engaged in further discussions with local officials, stakeholders, and community representatives. These interactions are vital for refining the masterplan and its projects and ensuring its alignment with local needs and aspirations.
The presentation of the Concept Masterplan marked a pivotal moment in translating vision into actionable projects. As the UN4UkrainianCities continues, so does the collaborative effort between international experts and local stakeholders to create a roadmap for Mykolaiv's sustainable future.