Huecos Urbanos (Urban Spaces)
About this good practice
The project "Huecos Urbanos" in Las Palmas addresses the issue of abandoned or underused plots by transforming them into green and recreational spaces. This approach mitigates urban neglect while fostering social and ecological benefits.
The initiative involves the renaturalization of private or public plots, equipping them with seating areas and shaded spaces. A municipal architect designs the spaces and local government funds the project, which includes material procurement, construction, and negotiations with plot owners.
Key actors include the City Council, private owners, and residents. Beneficiaries are local communities, who gained access to safe and welcoming public spaces for interaction, leisure, and environmental education.
Resources needed
The project required a relatively low investment. Resources included municipal architects for space design, funds for construction materials, and labor for execution. Additional resources were dedicated to negotiating agreements with private owners and maintaining the transformed plots.
Evidence of success
The project transformed abandoned plots into community spaces, fostering social cohesion and ecological awareness. Citizens enjoyed recreational areas that became gathering points for interaction and leisure. Positive feedback was received, and the initiative generated a model for sustainable urban regeneration.
Potential for learning or transfer
The "Huecos Urbanos" project showcases how abandoned plots can be effectively repurposed to foster social cohesion, ecological awareness, and community well-being. Its adaptable approach, balancing public and private partnerships, makes it transferable to other urban contexts. Key success factors include strong political support, clear municipal involvement, and incentives like tax exemptions for private owners.
The practice demonstrates the importance of securing agreements with landowners and integrating community input through public exhibitions of proposed designs. Other cities can replicate this approach by focusing on clear planning, low-cost implementation, and fostering collaboration with private stakeholders to enhance the accessibility and quality of urban space.
Further information
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Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
Municipal Parking Society of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, S.A. (SAGULPA)