Networks and cities' news

What Happens Next after Spend Analysis?

At our November 2019 Transnational Meeting in Bistrita each of the Partners of Making Spend Matter presented their final Spend Analysis findings. This heralded an important landmark in the Network as it highlighted that the Spend Analysis Methodology developed by Preston could be transferred to other Cities and contexts.

Converting the try: Mouans-Sartoux builds on its European transfer experience to create a "French BioCanteens" network

The creation of a municipal farm in Troyan, the implementation of education actions in Rosignano-Marittimo and in Torres Vedras, the change of the cooking habits in Pays des Condruses... are few of the many examples of BioCanteens' successful transfer, that was showcased during the Mid-Term Review in October 2019. Following these great achievements, the municipality of Mouans-Sartoux launched in October 2019 a French network to ensure the distribution of sustainable school meals in participating cities as a key lever towards the development of an integrated local agri-food approach, protecting both citizens’ health and the environment.

EcoCore Core Network Meeting in Pärnu: Leveraging Innovation Ecosystem to Drive Regional Development and Harness Green Transition Opportunities

The picturesque city of Pärnu recently played host to the EcoCore network's transnational meeting and city learning visit which tool place on 21^st and 22^nd May 2024.  The event brought together key stakeholders from across EcoCore partner regions to discuss sustainable development, regional cooperation, and digital innovation. The agenda was packed with insightful presentations, workshops, and site visits, providing a comprehensive overview of Pärnu’s strategies and challenges in becoming a model of regional sustainability and digital excellence. Here's a summary of the highlights and key takeaways from the two-day event.

Piraeus Hosts Third Transnational Meeting of URBACT 'Cities After Dark'

Reviving the night: How city centres are transforming after dark

Strolling through a city centre's high street at night can be quite an unexpected experience. After dark, a variety of services and activities come to life, from waste collection to the delivery of goods to shops, utilising the quiet hours for retail preparations. Just a few blocks away, music spills out from bars, mingling with lively chatter from bustling terraces. However, several factors can impact the vibrancy of city centres at night. There is no doubt that city centres face the most significant challenges of the urban night-time economy.

From the contrast of differing functions to noise pollution to the promotion of cultural and business activities, city centres are a prime testing ground for solutions that can enhance their attractiveness at night for both residents and visitors. The implementation of a night strategy can increase the perception of safety, while promoting community spirit and sense of place among different categories of residents.   

Breaking stereotypes: The triumph of a disability inclusion

In this article we would like to delve into a success story led by our DIGI-INCLUSION Network Partner, the Municipality of Torres Vedras (Portugal), who were also responsible for hosting the  Transnational Partner Meeting during last April. 

More specifically, we would like to emphasise the role of Leonel Alves, who, during the Transnational Meeting in Torres Vedras, shared with the partnership his story about having a disability and being digitally included. During the meeting he was accompanied by Fernando Martins, teacher in the Secondary School Henriques Nogueira.