To help revitalise the economy of Poland’s Lubuskie Voivodeship, this EU-funded project has transformed a former industrial site into a state-of-the-art centre for social, economic, and educational activities.
Abandoned industrial site in Nowa Sol, Poland, transformed into cultural, economic hub
- 16 April 2020
I remember when we had very high unemployment in Nowa Sól, almost 40 %. Now we have the lowest, only 6 %. For several years, GDP has been growing. EU funds and projects like this help us a lot and have a big impact.
Located along the Oder River in Western Poland, the town of Nowa Sól has traditionally been an industrial hub. In fact, its skyline is still dominated by the now-defunct factories of the Odra Company, a confectionary wholesaler. Thanks to the support of the EU-funded RE ODRA project, these empty factories are getting a facelift and a new lease on life.
The project is transforming the former Odra industrial site into a hub for cultural, social, economic, and educational activities. The effort is an important component of the city’s urban regeneration programme for 2016–2023.
Renovations inside and out
A key part of the renovation involves work on one of the factory’s former towers – which still serves as a city landmark. The tower is being completely redone so it can support the modern-day needs of citizens, educators and, in particular, entrepreneurs.
The project is also installing a new utility infrastructure, which will provide water, sanitation and electricity throughout the site. A new drainage system is being added. Furthermore, 150 parking spaces are being constructed, along with covered parking spaces for scooters and bicycles. The renovated site is readily accessible via a newly built road, which also features dedicated pedestrian and bicycle paths.
Green spaces
The Odra site will include numerous green spaces and a community band shell. In total, the project is renovating 28 hectares, including 7 823 m2 of rehabilitated open space. It is estimated that over 660 people will directly benefit from the project.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “‘RE ODRA – social and economic activation of former factory sites in Nowa Sól” is EUR 3 759 508 (PLN 16 096 617), with the EU’s European Regional Development Fund contributing EUR 2 787 610 (PLN 11 935 361) through the “Lubuskie Voivodeship” Regional Operational Programme for the 2014-2020 programming period. The investment falls under the priority “Democratic Change”.