Burgas: Project "Rejuvenate the City" for a Better Urban Environment

Burgas Municipality, in cooperation with the organization BG Budi Aktiven, is implementing a series of initiatives under a project bearing the ambitious name "Rejuvenate the City". The aim of the project was to engage children, students, and adult residents in efforts to create a better, healthier, and ecologically sustainable urban environment.

Within the framework of the project, students from the Professional High School of Construction, Architecture and Geodesy "Kolyo Ficheto" took part in an architectural workshop. This process began with an inspiring lecture on "placemaking" or "place-making", led by Laska Nenova, founder of BG Budi Aktiven. The lecture laid the foundations for understanding how an ordinary "space" can be transformed into a tangible "place". The students had the opportunity to learn how they can actively contribute to improving the urban environment, using their knowledge and skills.

The practical part of the workshop focused on the transformation of youth spaces in the central part of the city. Mentors in this process were Arch. Desi Stoyanova, Arch. Ivan Peev, Arch. Mihail Mihov and Arch. Sonya Kalcheva. Arch. Desi Stoyanova provided the young participants with guidelines and examples inspired by the spirit of the new European Bauhaus and contemporary urban planning. The emphasis was placed on creative and sustainable solutions that transform spaces into more attractive and accessible for all.

The young people had the opportunity to present their ideas for the development of the urban environment. In addition, they gained practical skills during a visit to the permaculture farm "Beautifool", where they became acquainted with the principles of creating and managing community gardens.

The result of the work of the young participants were concepts for the renovation of urban spaces. Among the proposed ideas, plans for rich greenery, open areas for art and outdoor cinema, as well as cozy spaces for creative and sports activities stood out. Special attention was paid to the inclusion of street animals in the urban environment, providing for special corners and solutions to ensure their presence and care, while improving the conditions for coexistence.

Parallel to the architectural workshop, an event aimed at people of the third age was held at the Exhibition Center "Flora". The program included lectures on healthy eating and exercises aimed at maintaining good physical condition. Children from the kindergarten "Hans Christian Andersen" also participated in the activities. This meeting between generations created an atmosphere of shared experience and encouraged an active lifestyle.

The project activities contributed to strengthening the links between generations and put an emphasis on the joint care for the sustainable development of the city. All participants in the initiative received certificates in recognition of their participation.