Urban nature island

A neglected municipal space with an area of 2,600 м2 in the center of Burgas, confined between a residential zone, municipal parking lot for 470 cars and three hospitals, was transformed with the a combination of blue and green measures. the concrete cover of 460м2 was demolished, an underground rainwater collection reservoir was installed to water the newly planted 10 trees, shrubs and other plants. A large 50 m pergola was constructed both as a "green wall" and as a basis for photovoltaic installation to provide light for the area. Lanes with permeable surfaces were built and seating for the citizens.

Uncovering the soil in an area of 460m2 by removing concrete surfaces;
Landscaping of the exposed and adjacent areas;
Construction of a water cascade;
Construction of a drainage system under the green areas to collect water
in an underground tank for its reuse for irrigation needs
by means of a pump.
Construction of an alley network entirely with drainage pavement.
Installation of energy-saving lighting.
Creating areas for relaxation and socialization in a suitable microclimate
entirely constructed of nature-friendly materials, providing a cool
shade and protection from harmful rays in the strips for months;
Construction of infrastructure for a 'living green wall' with a corresponding
Landscaping in 2 locations:
Construction of a pergola-type structure, the roof of which provides an area of
7.50 x 50 m and the construction of a photovoltaic plant with the possibility of
storage of the energy produced for partial provision of the
lighting in the park;
Planting 10 pcs. trees on the territory of the parking lot.

The materials from the removed old buildings and vegetation were used in the construction of the new blue-green infrastructure, applying principles of the circular economy.
The object of intervention under the project was transferred to the assets of the Municipality of Burgas and was be included in the annual budget for the maintenance of green areas for a period not exceeding less than 5 years after the completion of the project activities.

The project was developed in cooperation with stakeholders that included the deputy mayor, the chief architect, representatives of the municipal administration, the Chamber of architects and the Union of architects, the Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Water, NGOs and citizens.

• Reducing carbon dioxide emissions thanks to the additional
landscaping and water facilities;
• Improved rainwater management practices;
• Created space for biodiversity and ecosystems;
• Reduced climate change and disaster risks, flood protection;
• Provision of cultural ecosystem services; (spiritual enrichment,
aesthetic delight)
• Creating prerequisites for the multiplication of creative urban design,
resilient to climate change;
• Increased public awareness of mitigation and mitigation measures
adaptation to climate change.

Find a way to "translate" complex concepts like urban heat islands into practical solutions citizens can identify with.

Look for and communicate well the synergies with other municipal efforts to show the big picture approach.
If possible, implement such measures and interventions together with other cities to foster mutual encouragement and learning.