Repurposing heritage for citizens

Onda (ES) is a municipality with a rich ceramic tradition, especially since the 19th century, as evidenced by the many factories that are still the mainstay of the city. Among them is the Campaneta factory, declared an Asset of Local Importance, which is one of the oldest preserved industrial complexes for the production of ceramics in Onda. It is located at the intersection of three dispersed urban centres: the districts of Tossalet, Monteblanco and Rajolar. The City Council decided to restore La Campaneta and transform it into a space for civic, social and cultural revitalisation.  

Onda developed this practice to preserve historical heritage and promote the integration of three districts, making La Campaneta a meeting point for all the inhabitants of the town. 

This practice was set up to recover the old La Campaneta ceramics factory, a municipal building in a state of disrepair and disuse – and ensure its transformation into a cultural and leisure centre.  

To achieve this, the façade and structure of the building were consolidated, the roof was renovated and the entire interior was restored. The three Moorish kilns that the building contained, as well as various elements of traditional and industrial ceramics production, have been preserved and can now be visited.  

The aim was to offer various services to the public and make La Campaneta a meeting place for all the inhabitants of Onda. The practice has a significant regeneration potential, creating a cultural and recreational landmark to address the shortcomings and needs of three scattered neighbourhoods: Tossalet, Monteblanco and Rajolar.  

The choice of building is no coincidence. The old Campaneta factory reflects the ceramic tradition that has characterised Onda since the 19th century. This action was part of the Strategy of Onda for sustainable and integrated urban development, co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund. Since its inauguration, the building has hosted various cultural events and activities: exhibitions, concerts, workshops and community events, including URBACT Local Group meetings and workshops with members of the URBACT GreenPlace network. 

This practice uses an integrated approach to address environmental, economic and social dimensions. 
 
Environmental: rehabilitation of a building instead of building a new one; conservation of heritage; energy efficiency, such as the modernisation of the roof or the installation of LED lighting systems 

Economic: promotion of local trade by transforming the building and attracting visitors; creation of jobs, directly and indirectly, when cultural activities are carried out; promotion of entrepreneurship, providing space for entrepreneurs, markets and other activities 
 
Social cohesion: the building acts as a meeting place for the community. 

This project is part of the EDUSI Integrated Sustainable Urban Development Strategy. During the preparation of EDUSI, various public consultations were held with citizens to gather opinions and suggestions on the projects to be included in the strategy, including La Campaneta. To this end, several surveys were carried out, both through the website of the City Council, and with residents in person, mainly in the town hall. 

While a participatory approach was central to its transformation, the redeveloped building itself is now promoting further participation. La Campaneta has become the space used for various debates and citizen participation processes, such as meetings with the URBACT Local Group that was created within the framework of the URBACT GreenPlace network. 

Here are some examples of positive local impacts: 

• Regeneration of the space. The rehabilitation of the building, which was in a state of disrepair and had no specific use, has not only given a new purpose to the infrastructure, but has also helped to revitalise a run-down area, improving its appearance and attracting visitors and residents. Activity in the area has increased, promoting a more dynamic environment. 

• Social cohesion. La Campaneta has become a place where neighbours can meet, participate in activities and strengthen community ties. In particular, it acts as a meeting point for residents from different neighbourhoods and dispersed urban centres. 

• Conservation of the cultural heritage. The conservation of the Moorish kilns and other elements of ceramic production highlights local heritage, creating a new tourist attraction and generating interest and visits. 

• Reusing an existing building instead of building a new one has reduced the environmental impact and promoted sustainable urban development practices. 

   

It can be said that about 50% of Onda's population has benefited from the practice, both directly by actively participating in activities, and indirectly by experiencing a revitalised urban environment with a stronger sense of community.

This practice can serve as an inspiration for other cities with similar industrial heritage. It is a way to conserve urban heritage and put it at the service of the community. As well as rehabilitating old infrastructures while preserving their most emblematic aspects, this model also ensures they are adapted to provide new functions that promote cohesion and local development. 

By being part of a sustainable urban development strategy co-financed by European funds, this project shows how built heritage can be used effectively for urban regeneration.  

The project contributes to the achievement of the SDGs, the EU Urban Agenda, the Spanish Urban Agenda and the Municipality's Urban Agenda. It does so in particular by supporting urban revitalisation and improvement of the quality of life of residents; access to new public spaces; preservation of industrial heritage; sustainable urban regeneration; social cohesion; and the local economy. 

Specifically, the practice is linked to the legislative and governance context of the Spanish Sustainable and Integrated Urban Development Strategy, co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). This legislative framework promotes sustainable and inclusive urban regeneration projects. Compliance with these standards and regulations ensures transparent and effective management, facilitating the transfer of the model to other cities that also have access to EU funds. 

The practice can be adapted the characteristics and specific needs of any city that decides to adopt it. Approaches may vary, for example, according to the type of heritage to be preserved, or the uses to which the building will be put after rehabilitation.