Riga development plan of neighbourhood centres 2024-2028
About this good practice
In 2023, the first such type of medium-term policy planning instrument was approved in Riga by the city council. Its purpose is to set a framework for the coordination of municipal investments in the public outdoor spaces of neighbourhood centre development for the next five years. The plan is a city-wide action and urban development document that details the concept of neighbourhood centres, determines priority areas, type of investment and scope, responsibility and implementation mechanism.
The Sustainable Development Strategy of Riga until 2030 determines the need for the municipality to define neighbourhood centres and start developing them. The neighbourhood development plan defines 33 neighbourhood centres in which targeted municipal investments are made for promoting development. The plan creates a framework that ensures the coordinated development of neighbourhood centres in city territory and coordinates the planning, construction and implementation of related projects in areas such as outdoor space, mobility, place identity and small business.
By developing neighbourhood centres, the availability of well-arranged public outdoor spaces, safe street spaces and services increase, which promote residents' sense of belonging to the neighbourhood, improving quality of life. Neighbourhood centres of the plan are located outside the historical centre of Riga and its protection zone to improve the balance of territorial development between the city core and the periphery.
Expert opinion
Resources needed
The plan is financed through municipal funds. Investment allocation varies by neighbourhood, covering planning, infrastructure, and public space improvements. Human resources include municipal planners, urban designers, and local stakeholders, ensuring coordinated implementation.
Evidence of success
The GP is now a binding policy planning document that came to power in September 2023. Since then, 1 master-and-construction plan for Ķengarags and 4 concept plans for Bieriņi, Dārziņi, Iļģuciems, Vecmīlgrāvis neighbourhoods are in development with 2 more concept plans for Sarkandaugava and Āgenskalns in planning. We have organized involvement of residents in 6 neighbourhoods - Ķengarags, Iļģuciems, Bieriņi, Āgenskalns, Sarkandaugava and Vecmīlgrāvis – mapping, voting and neighborhood festivals
Potential for learning or transfer
This practice offers a structured approach to neighbourhood development that can be adapted by other cities facing challenges in decentralised urban planning. Key success factors include strong municipal coordination, stakeholder involvement, and integrated investment planning. The focus on balanced territorial development ensures equitable growth across the city. Cities with historical centres and peripheral neighbourhoods can apply similar frameworks to distribute resources effectively and foster local identity. The methodology used in Riga can be transferred to other urban contexts to enhance public spaces, mobility, and economic activity in underdeveloped areas.
Further information
Documents
ACAP_Kengarags_eng_12.03.2025.pdf
Website
Good practice owner
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