Redevelopment concept of Chernihiv city
Basic information
Project Title
Redevelopment concept of Chernihiv city
Full project title
Sustainable redevelopment concept "Chernihiv - a resilient city" (UKR: "Chernihiv - stiyke misto")
Category
Prioritising the places and people that need it the most
Project Description
In April 2022, when Russian troops retreated, Yakusha architect studio united 100 experts to recover Chernihiv, a 1300-year old city near Belarus border. The project aims to preserve historical and natural heritage and use reconstruction as a window of opportunity to re-develop. Concept is based on a bottom up approach, covering all aspects of city life, crucially engaging with a local population to devise a blueprint which integrated cutting edge sustainability principles, saving authenticity.
Geographical Scope
Local
Project Region
Chernihiv, Ukraine, Ukraine
Urban or rural issues
Mainly urban
Physical or other transformations
It refers to other types of transformations (soft investment)
EU Programme or fund
Yes
Which funds
Other
Other Funds
A huge part of our work was on a volunteer basis. But we are very thankful to our donors who helped on our way. <br />
1) Heinrich Boell Foundation - supported needs assessment of Chernihiv locals in 2022, analysis and main propositions to the master plan, development of bicycle infrastructure, public transport infrastructure changes, concept of carbon neutral city center.<br />
2) European Climate Foundation - supported Yakusha studio team in 2022-23 as coordinator of the redevelopment concept, helping to develop propositions to build sustainable city, built around people. We coordinated more than 100 volunteers working on 11 vectors of the concept of Chernihiv development, from the master plan and infrastructure, cleaning small rivers and implementing energy audit of municipal buildings, to the architectural code and marketing strategy. Our team has experts from foreign countries, not only Ukraine, including cooperation with Chernihiv City Council and NGOs.
Description of the project
Summary
Since April 2022, Yakusha architectural studio has worked on the redevelopment concept "Chernihiv - a resilient city. Resilient spirit. Resilient development", connecting experts. The war brought many losses and difficulties. But it is also a window of opportunity to review the values. The new brand idea provides a holistic approach to the city and unites all projects of the city development around idea of green recovery, saving city’s DNA. The word "RESILIENT" was chosen, which combines Chernihiv past, present and future (Ukrainian - “stiyke”). Resilience is about a 1,300-year history, and sustainable development, without which no modern European city, built around a person, is possible. Resilience is about the indomitable spirit of Chernihiv residents who managed to resist enemies and support others during the blockade.
In working on the concept of redevelopment, we are moving towards understanding the city as a whole. The main idea is what the city about, historical heritage, future values the city carries through economic, administrative, social and cultural aspects. Then this is reflected in different directions that unite everyone in interaction with the city and with each other. So that everyone understands what this city is about, its philosophy, character, DNA. So that all target groups perceive the city as a whole, be it a resident, designer, municipality, developer, donor or investor.
After Ukraine wins, our cities should be rebuilt. The concept “Resilient city” gives a clear vision and the vectors to invest funds for partners to understand Chernihiv values and long-term plan. We prepared the document, including 11 directions of sustainable city recovery, from master plan and infrastructure, the architectural code to marketing strategy. The project is extremely important to return the population and relocated enterprises that left, improve the life quality of the citizens living in the city now, and are a significant factor in stopping brain drains.
In working on the concept of redevelopment, we are moving towards understanding the city as a whole. The main idea is what the city about, historical heritage, future values the city carries through economic, administrative, social and cultural aspects. Then this is reflected in different directions that unite everyone in interaction with the city and with each other. So that everyone understands what this city is about, its philosophy, character, DNA. So that all target groups perceive the city as a whole, be it a resident, designer, municipality, developer, donor or investor.
After Ukraine wins, our cities should be rebuilt. The concept “Resilient city” gives a clear vision and the vectors to invest funds for partners to understand Chernihiv values and long-term plan. We prepared the document, including 11 directions of sustainable city recovery, from master plan and infrastructure, the architectural code to marketing strategy. The project is extremely important to return the population and relocated enterprises that left, improve the life quality of the citizens living in the city now, and are a significant factor in stopping brain drains.
Key objectives for sustainability
We reviewed all infrastructure network and traffic flows, proposed an update of mobility concept and integrate it with pre-war schemes, proposed 4 detailed bicycle routes, parking lots both for cars and bicycles, worked on changes to the public transport system schemes. Proposed Chernihiv Autoplant which produces trolley buses now to build re-charging stations for trolley buses with dynamic recharging (50% trolley lines were damaged by attacks, there are no units with dynamic charging at all). Some of the ideas are already implemented by the city council.
The introduction of a bicycle-pedestrian zone with a low level of emissions improves the quality of life of residents. Proposed central zero-emission zone of Chernihiv is located in a tourist-attractive place with a rich historical and cultural background. It can have a powerful economic, touristic and social impact. Other propositions include applying insulation and heating pumps, solar panel when rebuilding damaged objects; restructure the Heat-and-electric power plant, damaged by russian attacks; minimize or 0-usage of coal.
Also our team works with a team of hydroecologysts on measures for improving ecological potential of 3 small rivers in the city. After recovery measures central river Stryzhen is assumed to become the green attractive center for locals and tourists. Within the project it is planned the reconstruction of one of hydrotechnical buildings, the installation of artificial aeration, bio plato and arrangement of the park territories along the river.
We analyzed quality of drinking water and proposed to use potential from artesian waters. Besides, we found high demand for the waste management system. Also to be competitive not only within Ukraine but in Europe overall, we proposed several solutions to Chernihiv in terms of circular economy, including creating eco claster: processing light industry enterprise, ecotechnological solutions, solar panels, modern windows, eco accumulators production.
The introduction of a bicycle-pedestrian zone with a low level of emissions improves the quality of life of residents. Proposed central zero-emission zone of Chernihiv is located in a tourist-attractive place with a rich historical and cultural background. It can have a powerful economic, touristic and social impact. Other propositions include applying insulation and heating pumps, solar panel when rebuilding damaged objects; restructure the Heat-and-electric power plant, damaged by russian attacks; minimize or 0-usage of coal.
Also our team works with a team of hydroecologysts on measures for improving ecological potential of 3 small rivers in the city. After recovery measures central river Stryzhen is assumed to become the green attractive center for locals and tourists. Within the project it is planned the reconstruction of one of hydrotechnical buildings, the installation of artificial aeration, bio plato and arrangement of the park territories along the river.
We analyzed quality of drinking water and proposed to use potential from artesian waters. Besides, we found high demand for the waste management system. Also to be competitive not only within Ukraine but in Europe overall, we proposed several solutions to Chernihiv in terms of circular economy, including creating eco claster: processing light industry enterprise, ecotechnological solutions, solar panels, modern windows, eco accumulators production.
Key objectives for aesthetics and quality
“Resilient city” introduces:
- City-specific architectural and design codes, including identity and marketing strategy, brand book of the city.
- Low-rise buildings restrictions in the city center - recommended height of 4-6 floors.
- Reduction of chaotic outdoor advertising. Instead, introduce environmentally friendly advertising methods to improve urban space.
- Designing sustainable small architectural forms in line with discovered authentic Chernihiv design code.
Our redevelopment concept pay attention to the problems of ruining and disappearing 100-year old “curved wooden lace” (authentic wooden buildings’ décor, remained in the city) and works of Chernihiv monumentalism artists (mosaics, coloured glass windows and décor, wooden works of art). We consulted with “Chernihiv Starodavniy” (Ukr: ancient) historians, Chernihiv professors and artists on the historical and cultural heritage of 1300-year-old city. In 2022 in Brussels we made the special lecture about Ukrainian heritage and presented Chernihiv to Louise Haxthausen, Head of UNESCO Brussels Liaison Office and Representation to the European Union.
We work on developing new touristic routes in order to provide longer contact with the city so that visitors spend more than 1 day to boost HoReCa and widen touristic experience.
In line with the concept of Chernihiv re-development as historic and ecological center of Ukraine, we propose modern construction solutions with respect for the historical context, a combination of the latest technologies and traditional materials. Providing сertification according to the international systems (e.g., BREEAM, LEED, active house) as a hygienic standard for housing of the future. We believe that everything that claims to be temporary becomes permanent with time. Current project aims building eco-district using local Ukrainian materials and applying energy-efficient methods to create comfortable and environmentally friendly buildings that could stay for decades.
- City-specific architectural and design codes, including identity and marketing strategy, brand book of the city.
- Low-rise buildings restrictions in the city center - recommended height of 4-6 floors.
- Reduction of chaotic outdoor advertising. Instead, introduce environmentally friendly advertising methods to improve urban space.
- Designing sustainable small architectural forms in line with discovered authentic Chernihiv design code.
Our redevelopment concept pay attention to the problems of ruining and disappearing 100-year old “curved wooden lace” (authentic wooden buildings’ décor, remained in the city) and works of Chernihiv monumentalism artists (mosaics, coloured glass windows and décor, wooden works of art). We consulted with “Chernihiv Starodavniy” (Ukr: ancient) historians, Chernihiv professors and artists on the historical and cultural heritage of 1300-year-old city. In 2022 in Brussels we made the special lecture about Ukrainian heritage and presented Chernihiv to Louise Haxthausen, Head of UNESCO Brussels Liaison Office and Representation to the European Union.
We work on developing new touristic routes in order to provide longer contact with the city so that visitors spend more than 1 day to boost HoReCa and widen touristic experience.
In line with the concept of Chernihiv re-development as historic and ecological center of Ukraine, we propose modern construction solutions with respect for the historical context, a combination of the latest technologies and traditional materials. Providing сertification according to the international systems (e.g., BREEAM, LEED, active house) as a hygienic standard for housing of the future. We believe that everything that claims to be temporary becomes permanent with time. Current project aims building eco-district using local Ukrainian materials and applying energy-efficient methods to create comfortable and environmentally friendly buildings that could stay for decades.
Key objectives for inclusion
Our concept is already of historical significance for Ukraine on the way to European integration. The initiatives of this level, based on rethinking of outdated approaches remaining from Soviet practice, start from the bottom up, cover all aspects of life of the city and involve so many sympathetic people. The introduction of a transparent and up-to-date city concept opens up the possibility of necessary transformations for Chernihiv, and for other cities of Ukraine, taking into account the values and needs of their citizens.
Mobility and accessibility are well thought out. This issue is becoming more important every day, because of the war we have to think about those of our defenders who will return with reduced mobility.
Solutions introduce modern and inclusive children playgrounds and open spaces for communication and activities outside. Construction of wide web of public WC along the city is proposed (based on our needs assessment it was demand #1). Digitalization part of the concept proposes to develop web-application with relevant routes and access to traffic updates. The application for businesses will include design code of signs, standards, permit documentation, addresses and access information. We propose to fulfill big citizens’ demand on entrepreneurship popularization, the courses of doing and developing business, startup community (enhance collaboration between businesses, IT cluster and State Polytechnic Institute), develop small and medium business support programs, as entrepreneurs are the driver of economy and future recovery.
The concept is built on Chernihiv strengths - history, natural resources. Being 140 km far from Kyiv, 2 hours from the biggest airport with concept implementation, carefully planning appropriate investments in human capital, effective institutions, relevant technologies, and innovative and competitive enterprises, Chernihiv can not only succeed in competitive green rebuilding but develop even better than before.
Mobility and accessibility are well thought out. This issue is becoming more important every day, because of the war we have to think about those of our defenders who will return with reduced mobility.
Solutions introduce modern and inclusive children playgrounds and open spaces for communication and activities outside. Construction of wide web of public WC along the city is proposed (based on our needs assessment it was demand #1). Digitalization part of the concept proposes to develop web-application with relevant routes and access to traffic updates. The application for businesses will include design code of signs, standards, permit documentation, addresses and access information. We propose to fulfill big citizens’ demand on entrepreneurship popularization, the courses of doing and developing business, startup community (enhance collaboration between businesses, IT cluster and State Polytechnic Institute), develop small and medium business support programs, as entrepreneurs are the driver of economy and future recovery.
The concept is built on Chernihiv strengths - history, natural resources. Being 140 km far from Kyiv, 2 hours from the biggest airport with concept implementation, carefully planning appropriate investments in human capital, effective institutions, relevant technologies, and innovative and competitive enterprises, Chernihiv can not only succeed in competitive green rebuilding but develop even better than before.
How Citizens benefit
The idea of rethinking Chernihiv united dozens of people. We act openly as a civil society, involving independent consultants in the project and reporting constantly to our international donors. In cooperation with the Heinrich Boell Foundation, Kyiv Office–Ukraine needs assessment of Chernihiv citizens was conducted, analysis was reflected in the concept. 200 000 out of 280 000 citizens evacuated during March-April, 2022. Needs assessment showed their higher demand on EU values and lifestyle, implemented in everyday life. People saw another way of living abroad, human and nature oriented - and they want the same in their hometown. Also we conducted a series of offline public discussions and with local residents, architects, teachers & students of Chernihiv Polytechnic University, business representatives, NGOs, IT-cluster, mass media.
To engage more people and communicate our work within locals, we performed the project “Resilient in Spirit” https://www.chernihiv.vision/en/resilientspirit about Chernihiv people resilience. On the city lights around the city we showed photos of Chernihiv doctors, emergency services workers, communal services, bakers, volunteers, businessmen, teachers, and active citizens who in one way or another were in the city during blockade in 2022 and helped its residents endure the extremely difficult days of the siege and battles.
We are actively cooperating with the city council, city main architect, head of international relations department. Official decision of Chernihiv City Council dated June 30, 2022 accepted redevelopment concept under the coordination of “Yakusha”. All materials are transferred to the city council free of charge in accordance with the memorandum of cooperation with the mayor. “Yakusha” coordinated more than 100 volunteers within 11 groups for detailed work on each project area. Such external help from volunteers allows Chernihiv authorities to distribute the city budget for more urgent needs of the citizens.
To engage more people and communicate our work within locals, we performed the project “Resilient in Spirit” https://www.chernihiv.vision/en/resilientspirit about Chernihiv people resilience. On the city lights around the city we showed photos of Chernihiv doctors, emergency services workers, communal services, bakers, volunteers, businessmen, teachers, and active citizens who in one way or another were in the city during blockade in 2022 and helped its residents endure the extremely difficult days of the siege and battles.
We are actively cooperating with the city council, city main architect, head of international relations department. Official decision of Chernihiv City Council dated June 30, 2022 accepted redevelopment concept under the coordination of “Yakusha”. All materials are transferred to the city council free of charge in accordance with the memorandum of cooperation with the mayor. “Yakusha” coordinated more than 100 volunteers within 11 groups for detailed work on each project area. Such external help from volunteers allows Chernihiv authorities to distribute the city budget for more urgent needs of the citizens.
Physical or other transformations
It refers to other types of transformations (soft investment)
Innovative character
The reconstruction of Chernihiv should not be based on "patching holes", but on a general strategy that will determine the vector of the city's development for the next 15-20 years and help attract more funds from partners for the restoration and development. All solutions in the concept of "Chernihiv — a resilient city" are based on the principles of sustainable development, strengthening the historicity and environmental friendliness of the city. "Resilient city" is like a kind of filter for all future projects. Only by having a vision you can step by step build a holistic city story for the years ahead. Yakusha’s team offered Chernihiv City Council free professional help for Chernihiv to compete not only at the state level, but also with EU cities, on our way to EU membership.
During the presentation of the concept on September, 28th,2023, Jean-Baptiste Brasseur, Head of the Economic Department of the Embassy of France in Ukraine, supported the project online and said: “France is very supportive of this kind of initiatives. How can we use the opportunity of rebuilding to make it even better than it was? We can use reconstruction as a window of opportunity to implement something that was not there before at all. French companies are already working on strategic and urban planning, infrastructure, energy. It is very cool that we have this work of yours”.
Acting Chernihiv mayor, Oleksandr Lomako: “The first dialogue with our foreign partners is always about the urgent needs of the city. But during each meeting, we emphasize that we are talking not only about today, but also about long-term plans. When they hear that we have a clear vision for tomorrow, they say it's important to them. They have not come to Ukraine for a year or two to rebuild, but want to work on rethinking urban spaces. The fact that we worked on the Concept and have relevant projects will help Chernihiv to work more effectively with international partners to attract financial aid”.
During the presentation of the concept on September, 28th,2023, Jean-Baptiste Brasseur, Head of the Economic Department of the Embassy of France in Ukraine, supported the project online and said: “France is very supportive of this kind of initiatives. How can we use the opportunity of rebuilding to make it even better than it was? We can use reconstruction as a window of opportunity to implement something that was not there before at all. French companies are already working on strategic and urban planning, infrastructure, energy. It is very cool that we have this work of yours”.
Acting Chernihiv mayor, Oleksandr Lomako: “The first dialogue with our foreign partners is always about the urgent needs of the city. But during each meeting, we emphasize that we are talking not only about today, but also about long-term plans. When they hear that we have a clear vision for tomorrow, they say it's important to them. They have not come to Ukraine for a year or two to rebuild, but want to work on rethinking urban spaces. The fact that we worked on the Concept and have relevant projects will help Chernihiv to work more effectively with international partners to attract financial aid”.
Disciplines/knowledge reflected
Victoria Yakusha is an architect, initiator & conceptologist of the project.:
Working on Master plan & key city arteries architects and urbanists applied knowledge in Urban planning, landscaping.Needs assessment: marketing research, sociology, interviewing, data analyses and research.
Sustainable infrastructure: urbanists from NGO “Bike City Consulting” who are experts of Kyiv City Council Transport Department, worked together with Chernihiv City Council Transport Department, applied their expertise in infrastructure planning, research and analysis of needs assessment and socio-economic data.
Residential housing and energy efficiency: knowledge on сertification according to the international systems (BREEAM, LEED, active house).
Yakusha participates in working group on saving small rivers, which consists of hydrobiologist, hydrologist, hydrochemist, algologist, ichthyologist, hydrobotanist, with experts from Department of Ecology of the City Council, Chernihiv Waterchannel, Deputy Head of the Department of Environmental Impact Assessment, Head of the Environmental Monitoring of the Department of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Chernihiv Regional State Administration, Desnyan Basin Water Resources Department, State Environmental Inspection and the head of Vodproekt-Chernihiv LLC.
Circle, green economy: department of Economy of Chernihiv City Council, with economists in Yakusha Team, Deloitte and ex-McKinsey consultants.
Cooperation with deputy mayor of Chernihiv for the activities of executive bodies of the council, chief architect of Chernihiv, and Head of international relations & investment unit.
Digitalization concept part is in charge of Chernihiv IT Cluster and experience of professors of Polytechnic National University.
Marketing and city identity part engaged Chernihiv originated Chief Marketing Officers’ of the leading companies and digital agencies. Identity design is made by the Design4Ukraine Association working with Ukrainian Government.
Working on Master plan & key city arteries architects and urbanists applied knowledge in Urban planning, landscaping.Needs assessment: marketing research, sociology, interviewing, data analyses and research.
Sustainable infrastructure: urbanists from NGO “Bike City Consulting” who are experts of Kyiv City Council Transport Department, worked together with Chernihiv City Council Transport Department, applied their expertise in infrastructure planning, research and analysis of needs assessment and socio-economic data.
Residential housing and energy efficiency: knowledge on сertification according to the international systems (BREEAM, LEED, active house).
Yakusha participates in working group on saving small rivers, which consists of hydrobiologist, hydrologist, hydrochemist, algologist, ichthyologist, hydrobotanist, with experts from Department of Ecology of the City Council, Chernihiv Waterchannel, Deputy Head of the Department of Environmental Impact Assessment, Head of the Environmental Monitoring of the Department of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Chernihiv Regional State Administration, Desnyan Basin Water Resources Department, State Environmental Inspection and the head of Vodproekt-Chernihiv LLC.
Circle, green economy: department of Economy of Chernihiv City Council, with economists in Yakusha Team, Deloitte and ex-McKinsey consultants.
Cooperation with deputy mayor of Chernihiv for the activities of executive bodies of the council, chief architect of Chernihiv, and Head of international relations & investment unit.
Digitalization concept part is in charge of Chernihiv IT Cluster and experience of professors of Polytechnic National University.
Marketing and city identity part engaged Chernihiv originated Chief Marketing Officers’ of the leading companies and digital agencies. Identity design is made by the Design4Ukraine Association working with Ukrainian Government.
Methodology used
Chernihiv has limited budget for “Program for comprehensive redevelopment of the territory” because municipal resources were addressed to manage war destructions of the buildings and infrastructure, restore kindergartens, schools, improve shelters, start the heating season in time. A holistic visionary approach in the understanding of the city, based on its philosophy&DNA, was applied.
Ukrainian architectural studio “Yakusha” initiated the concept of Chernihiv redevelopment and coordinates volunteers to engage existing expert–volunteer groups into sustainable support of the city renovation. In addition, the project will prevent brain drain, but rather to localize the expertise on the grounds.
As part of the work on the redevelopment concept of Chernihiv, in cooperation with the Heinrich Boell Foundation, NGO “Bike City Consulting” and Yakusha conducted needs assessment of local residents of Chernihiv and a desk research report. The survey provided an understanding of the needs of Chernihiv citizens, further analysis helped to prioritize development directions. Then desk-research was made (historical, cultural, ecological, economic and social potentials of the city), expert team provided communication with citizens during offline and online events and made interviews. Citizens are proud of their historical and green city, showed the results of the questionnaire performed by the team. Besides, 70% of the redevelopment concept team originated from Chernihiv. Proposals were made to the city’s general plan, landscaping and infrastructure. We have people from Finland, the USA, Israel (who patented shelters construction technology which was included into the document of Concept).
Open public discussions were held many times.
Some of principles applied:
-history & ecology as filter for projects
- inclusiveness & accessibility for all citizen groups
- maximum environmental friendliness
- combination of the latest technologies and traditional materials.
Ukrainian architectural studio “Yakusha” initiated the concept of Chernihiv redevelopment and coordinates volunteers to engage existing expert–volunteer groups into sustainable support of the city renovation. In addition, the project will prevent brain drain, but rather to localize the expertise on the grounds.
As part of the work on the redevelopment concept of Chernihiv, in cooperation with the Heinrich Boell Foundation, NGO “Bike City Consulting” and Yakusha conducted needs assessment of local residents of Chernihiv and a desk research report. The survey provided an understanding of the needs of Chernihiv citizens, further analysis helped to prioritize development directions. Then desk-research was made (historical, cultural, ecological, economic and social potentials of the city), expert team provided communication with citizens during offline and online events and made interviews. Citizens are proud of their historical and green city, showed the results of the questionnaire performed by the team. Besides, 70% of the redevelopment concept team originated from Chernihiv. Proposals were made to the city’s general plan, landscaping and infrastructure. We have people from Finland, the USA, Israel (who patented shelters construction technology which was included into the document of Concept).
Open public discussions were held many times.
Some of principles applied:
-history & ecology as filter for projects
- inclusiveness & accessibility for all citizen groups
- maximum environmental friendliness
- combination of the latest technologies and traditional materials.
How stakeholders are engaged
Our partner, European Climate Foundation, assists with communication in foreign media. With the support of Heinrich Boell Foundation, NGO “Bike City Consulting” worked on the propositions to the bicycle infrastructure, public transport and central zone with low emissions. International consultants are actively involved: Guy Perry, who participated in urban development and renovation projects in China, Hong Kong, Hungary, the Philippines, and Poland. NGO “Chernihiv IT” created web page of the project. Yakusha team conducted internship to Brno, organized within the project "Partnership for the sustainable recovery of Ukraine", Nadace Partnerství, developing waste management system propositions with Zero Waste Lviv, NGO “Ecomisto” and UNDP ecologist. made 2 presentations at the Ministry of Infrastructure, at “Creative Ukraine” Forum, and consulted 4 French companies engaged in rebuilding. Chernihiv City Council presented the concept at Warsaw rebuilding summit.
Anastasia Pilhman, Finland, originates from Chernihiv, with Chernihiv State Polytechnic Institute, worked on the proposals regarding the preservation of the city's identity and the development of citie’s architectural image with the help of urban planning documentation in details on the example of one of the key city arteries, Shevchenko Street.
Another group of experts, led by hydro ecologist, worked on the eco problems of the river Stryzhen within the city (were proposed reconstruction of one of hydrotechnical buildings, installation of artificial aeration, bio plato and inclusive landscaping along the river).
Engineers from “Advansys Group” conducted the energy audit of one of Chernihiv hospitals, two schools, and a municipal building. Information on energy consumption was summarized, the existing technical documentation was reviewed, and the instrumental inspection was performed. The energy-efficient measures were proposed, which were formed into proposals for reducing energy consumption of buildings.
Anastasia Pilhman, Finland, originates from Chernihiv, with Chernihiv State Polytechnic Institute, worked on the proposals regarding the preservation of the city's identity and the development of citie’s architectural image with the help of urban planning documentation in details on the example of one of the key city arteries, Shevchenko Street.
Another group of experts, led by hydro ecologist, worked on the eco problems of the river Stryzhen within the city (were proposed reconstruction of one of hydrotechnical buildings, installation of artificial aeration, bio plato and inclusive landscaping along the river).
Engineers from “Advansys Group” conducted the energy audit of one of Chernihiv hospitals, two schools, and a municipal building. Information on energy consumption was summarized, the existing technical documentation was reviewed, and the instrumental inspection was performed. The energy-efficient measures were proposed, which were formed into proposals for reducing energy consumption of buildings.
Global challenges
First of all, we emphasize the need to holistic approach to the city development. A city begins with an idea that distinguishes it from others. It's not about stereotypes, but highlights that are read by people and attract them. It is the spirit of the city that should determine the vectors of its development. We know many cities with a strong brand that is understood all over the world. Our first task is to distinguish a development plan that will be most suitable for Chernihiv and emphasize its uniqueness.
Project addresses such global challenges: climate change and over pollution of soil and water. Heavy CO2 pollution in the urban areas. Index of happiness. Poverty situation.
We dream that when one thinks of Chernihiv, the association of an ecological city, an ancient but, at the same time, a modern, comfortable city for living and doing business, immediately arises. Where to go to relax on the weekend is interesting and in nature? In Chernihiv. Where to hold a conference, yoga retreat or what to show foreigners, except for the capital - Chernihiv. What city is an example of energy efficiency and comfort for life - Chernihiv.
We develop the economy of the region and Ukraine overall, improving ecological situation, saving our planet, and also saving historical and cultural heritage as 1/3 of Eastern European cultural heritage is located in the Chernihiv region. Chernihiv really does have some things to be proud of. The city has three cultural and landscape complexes that claim to be included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. These are multi-layered urban planning ensembles that have no analogues in Eastern Europe nor, unfortunately, have their own touristic brand. The new City Development Concept defines Chernihiv for the first time as the historical and ecological center of Ukraine and reveals its full potential.
Project addresses such global challenges: climate change and over pollution of soil and water. Heavy CO2 pollution in the urban areas. Index of happiness. Poverty situation.
We dream that when one thinks of Chernihiv, the association of an ecological city, an ancient but, at the same time, a modern, comfortable city for living and doing business, immediately arises. Where to go to relax on the weekend is interesting and in nature? In Chernihiv. Where to hold a conference, yoga retreat or what to show foreigners, except for the capital - Chernihiv. What city is an example of energy efficiency and comfort for life - Chernihiv.
We develop the economy of the region and Ukraine overall, improving ecological situation, saving our planet, and also saving historical and cultural heritage as 1/3 of Eastern European cultural heritage is located in the Chernihiv region. Chernihiv really does have some things to be proud of. The city has three cultural and landscape complexes that claim to be included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. These are multi-layered urban planning ensembles that have no analogues in Eastern Europe nor, unfortunately, have their own touristic brand. The new City Development Concept defines Chernihiv for the first time as the historical and ecological center of Ukraine and reveals its full potential.
Learning transferred to other parties
The values we are fighting for should be reflected in the restored cities. World examples – wartime recovery planning. The Concept “Resilient city” aims to engage existing expert–volunteer groups into sustainable support of the city renovation. The project will prevent brain drain, but rather to localize the expertise on the grounds. Chernihiv was the first in Ukraine to take such a pace and a conscious course for recovery. Experience could be transferred to interested groups.
Work on Chernihiv redevelopment concept is in line with the urgency of the question in Ukraine and for foreign countries in terms of rebuilding as the reconstruction of Ukraine will be one of the largest construction projects in Europe for the last decades. Ukraine has only once chance, opportunity to rebuild green and become compatible. So it is the exact right time now to think about concepts, strategies, development, all those things, which require time to understand and analyze. We should ask ourselves who we are and what do we want and how to do this. That should be our cities and our answers. And we need not only talk about this, but to think, discuss and design accordingly. In order when the possibilities to rebuild arise and realization starts, we have not just answers to the questions above, but the action plan.
We made a web page and all our steps, results, concept documentation and interviews are released there for free access by everyone. Natalia Kholchenkova, Head of International Relations & Investments Unit of City Council: “This is strategic document that defines the spatial and substantive directions of Chernihiv's development for the next several decades. Already today, we are planning our future with the involvement of world experience, innovative technologies with a focus on preserving the historical heritage, revealing the ecological potential and ensuring the sustainable development of Chernihiv. Thank to all international partners who joined and supported Chernihiv!"
Work on Chernihiv redevelopment concept is in line with the urgency of the question in Ukraine and for foreign countries in terms of rebuilding as the reconstruction of Ukraine will be one of the largest construction projects in Europe for the last decades. Ukraine has only once chance, opportunity to rebuild green and become compatible. So it is the exact right time now to think about concepts, strategies, development, all those things, which require time to understand and analyze. We should ask ourselves who we are and what do we want and how to do this. That should be our cities and our answers. And we need not only talk about this, but to think, discuss and design accordingly. In order when the possibilities to rebuild arise and realization starts, we have not just answers to the questions above, but the action plan.
We made a web page and all our steps, results, concept documentation and interviews are released there for free access by everyone. Natalia Kholchenkova, Head of International Relations & Investments Unit of City Council: “This is strategic document that defines the spatial and substantive directions of Chernihiv's development for the next several decades. Already today, we are planning our future with the involvement of world experience, innovative technologies with a focus on preserving the historical heritage, revealing the ecological potential and ensuring the sustainable development of Chernihiv. Thank to all international partners who joined and supported Chernihiv!"
Keywords
human-oriented
holistic
sustainable
inclusiveness
engagement
