NEB Public Spaces Network

We are preparing an URBACT Action Network proposal focused on how European cities can rethink and transform existing public services and facilities through the New European Bauhaus approach. Many cities have libraries, cultural centres, community spaces, social facilities or other public buildings that are underused or not fully connected to current challenges such as climate adaptation, social cohesion, inclusion, digital transition and citizen participation. The project aims to explore how these spaces can become multifunctional civic hubs: more inclusive, sustainable, attractive and community-oriented. Rather than focusing on new infrastructure, the network will work on new uses, participatory processes, governance models and service formats.

We are leading the proposal and we are looking for municipalities interested in testing local actions in existing public facilities and sharing experiences with other European cities. Potential pilots may focus on libraries, cultural centres, community spaces, social services, climate shelters, youth spaces or other civic infrastructures. The ambition is to co-create practical and transferable solutions to help cities apply New European Bauhaus values to everyday public services and improve integrated urban development at local level.