Hangar Creativi – Revitalised spaces for art, culture, and business in Livorno

By project IMPETUS

Published on 29 May 2024

Italy

Toscana

Livorno

About this good practice

The Creative Hangars initiative responds to the challenge of revitalising the former Livorno public transport company area (exATL). Abandoned since 2015, the 17,000 m² site is being transformed into an 'advanced cultural district.' The project, initiated through participatory processes started in 2021, aims at the integration of multiple different functions, all designed with the utmost attention to the new generations.
In March 2022, the regeneration of the Creative Hangars area was selected by the Tuscany Region, within the initiatives financed by the Regional Program ERDF 2021-2027. In December 2022, a public meeting was held at the Hangars to illustrate the proposal for the regeneration of the former warehouse area and the development path of the project idea.
Temporary uses approach is configured as a useful design method to delve into some aspects on which there is uncertainty, through the implementation of real tests of use of the spaces.
The Municipality activated a participatory process involving the cultural associations in shaping the area's design, promoting functions such as theatres, creative industries, and green spaces. The initiative fostered a network of organisations active in the fields of culture, technological innovation, and science, and beneficiaries ranged from the local community to cultural associations, startups, and young talents. The whole process will enable the area, once redeveloped, to be a vibrant cultural district.

Resources needed

Duration of the Concession: 50 years
Investment: approx. €26.09 million (including available amounts)
Public contribution: €8 million from ERDF, plus €2.4 million as municipal co-financing.
For the rest of the necessary resources: use of public-private partnerships

Evidence of success

The economic and social feasibility analysis has confirmed the viability of the project, showcasing compatibility with regulations, profitability, and community willingness to contribute. The Creative Hangar has already been selected by the Region within the initiatives financed by the Tuscany Regional Programme ERDF 2021-2027. The initiative has already demonstrated positive impacts on civic and social engagement and opportunities for young talents, new businesses and cultural organisations.

Potential for learning or transfer

The practice proves particularly intriguing for other regions and cities in Europe for the following reasons:
a) The intervention is already part of a broader policy framework, such as the Regional ERDF Programme, enhancing the value of this practice not only at the European level but also as a reference for the regional context.
b) Creative Hangars is a practice that has repeatedly welcomed the participation of citizens and organisations, enhancing the city of Livorno's ability to engage them in a collective redefinition of public space and community functions.
c) The practice is noteworthy as a benchmark for the incremental regeneration of an area formerly dedicated to public services and uses, designing and implementing new functions and services.