Twin town Valga/Valka
Published on 04 September 2018
Estonia
Latvija
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About this good practice
Latvian town Valka and Estonian town Valga are twins, separated by the Estonian/Latvian border but using the slogan "One Town, Two Countries". Until 1920 it was one town but since 1920 and during the Soviet time the town was splitted and separated with well-defended border.
2005-2007 within the project “Valga-Valka: 1 town, 2 countries” common development plans, marketing and branding strategy were worked out, joint Valga-Valka Joint Secretariat was formed.
2008-2010 within the project “Increasing attractiveness of Valga-Valka” joint cross-border infrastructure (light traffic roads, sports and playgrounds, recreational and parking areas) were developed, marketing activities implemented.
2012-2013 within project “Renovation of Valga-Valka railway station” joint railway station was renovated and access for trains to connect Estonia and Latvia was created. Now inhabitants and tourists can change trains in one station.
2017-2020 within the project “Development of Valga-Valka twin town” both parts of the town of Valga- Valka will be integrated into a single central area and pedestrian street to support cross-border movement and create a common urban space. The so-called joint central square as well as the pedestrian street should encourage the development of small businesses and promote the return of everyday life to the historic city center.
Formerly separated twin towns work now for visitors as one destination.
2005-2007 within the project “Valga-Valka: 1 town, 2 countries” common development plans, marketing and branding strategy were worked out, joint Valga-Valka Joint Secretariat was formed.
2008-2010 within the project “Increasing attractiveness of Valga-Valka” joint cross-border infrastructure (light traffic roads, sports and playgrounds, recreational and parking areas) were developed, marketing activities implemented.
2012-2013 within project “Renovation of Valga-Valka railway station” joint railway station was renovated and access for trains to connect Estonia and Latvia was created. Now inhabitants and tourists can change trains in one station.
2017-2020 within the project “Development of Valga-Valka twin town” both parts of the town of Valga- Valka will be integrated into a single central area and pedestrian street to support cross-border movement and create a common urban space. The so-called joint central square as well as the pedestrian street should encourage the development of small businesses and promote the return of everyday life to the historic city center.
Formerly separated twin towns work now for visitors as one destination.
Expert opinion
The practice is an interesting example of developing and promoting two neighbouring cities located in the border area between Latvia and Estonia as one destination. An essential feature of the practice is the extensive cooperation between public authorities across the border which led to preparation of common development plans, branding strategy, coordinated improvements of infrastructure, etc. The practice can serve as an inspiration for other border regions and cities willing to present a common offer, market it jointly and increase the potential demand for tourism around borders.
Resources needed
6,7 million € was spent within all projects for common strategies and implementing activities to join 2 parts of the town and develop into one destination.
Evidence of success
Joint development activities are planned, regular weekly meetings between EE and LV municipalities of Valga-valka are held, joint infrastructure is successful, joint cultural events are organised, twin-town is marketed as one destination, number of visitors and tourists has increased significantly.
Potential for learning or transfer
Cross-border areas usually make mirror projects. Valga-Valka in best practice of cross-border cooperation and joint activities.
Further information
Website
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
Organisation
Valga Town Government
Estonia
Eesti