A wide ranging project in the southern Spanish city of Murcia is aiming to improve social and urban development, boost the regional economy, as well as promote artistic creativity and cultural industries.
Urbana Espíritu Santo: Neighbourhood regeneration through social and cultural development
- 05 May 2014
The initiative targets the revitalisation of the neighbourhood of Espíritu Santo which has seen significant degradation and urban problems in recent years. Situated in the north of the city, the neighbourhood is peripheral from the popular downtown area.
The EU-supported project aims to implement an innovative strategy for economic and social regeneration, and sustainable development. The city also sees culture and cultural diversity as a key element of urban development and the knowledge society, as well as linking to other public policies.
Regenerating the neighbourhood
With this vision in mind, the city is undertaking the project “Urbana Espíritu Santo” with the key objective of improving the quality of life of local citizens. To achieve this, the project has four target areas: urban spaces, and the economic, social and cultural environment.
In addressing the urban space, the project is aiming to provide cultural, social and educational facilities, to make the physical environment more attractive and make citizens feel they are part of the community.
As part of the project, a new cultural and artistic centre is being built, gardens are being improved and adequate lighting installed, as well as other measures to save energy and maintain a clean and attractive environment.
Support for new entrepreneurs
A key element of the project is the launch of a new cultural business incubator, which is expected to benefit the whole region. Its aim is to support and give advice to new entrepreneurs in the cultural sector from the area. This is in line with one of the main project goals, to boost employability in the region, increase job resources and stimulate economic activity.
A personal advice service about employment and entrepreneurship is being run to improve the professional competencies of the working population, as well as an extensive programme of training in cultural and artistic professional activities. Further initiatives are aimed at eliminating exclusion and isolation, promoting cultural diversity, and developing social and cultural programmes for vulnerable groups.
Several courses have been organised in the framework of the project, such as filming and editing of audiovisual content; reproducing sculptures in artificial stone and bronze; costume, hairdressing, make up for performing arts and TV. Over 50 people took part in these courses, 20 of them are now on placement in companies. Other courses such as sound, direction and lighting, all for live performances, are currently programmed.
There is also a group of initiatives to promote ICT as a tool for the artistic professions, cultural products and network development.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “Urbana Espíritu Santo” is EUR 10 745 651, with the EU’s European Regional Development Fund contributing EUR 7 521 956 through the priority “ Local and Urban Sustainable Development ” of the Operational Programme for Murcia.