ReLinking Industrial Spaces-Resilient and Inclusive Urban Regeneration through Heritage and Public Space

Sagunto (Spain) is currently developing an urban regeneration process around the Gerencia–Pantalán industrial waterfront area, linked to its industrial and maritime heritage. The city aims to transform former industrial and waterfront spaces into more sustainable, accessible and liveable urban environments through an integrated approach combining climate adaptation, industrial heritage valorisation, citizen participation and inclusive urban design. The proposed URBACT Action Network will explore how European cities can reactivate degraded industrial areas and reconnect them with the urban fabric through pilot-based and participatory approaches. The network will focus on testing small-scale and scalable urban solutions such as: tactical urbanism, temporary activation of industrial and waterfront spaces, climate-sensitive public space design, urban greening and nature-based solutions, inclusive pedestrian routes, feminist urbanism approaches, industrial heritage interpretation. Many European cities face similar challenges: abandoned or underused industrial areas, disconnected waterfronts, climate-vulnerable public spaces, difficulties in reusing industrial heritage, and the need for more inclusive and resilient urban environments. The ambition of the network is to exchange practical experiences, test innovative urban solutions and prepare future sustainable investments through the URBACT methodology.