LOTTI Interregional Event 3 - Cantabria

LOTTI partners and stakeholders gathered for the third Interregional Event in Cantabria, Spain. The event featured representatives from Finland, Spain, Poland, Ireland, France, and Italy, who engaged in knowledge-sharing and idea exchange to advance the project.

The event began with a visit to Torrelavega, where discussions with OECD representatives at the Chamber of Commerce focused on citizen engagement in EU project funding decisions. Participants then toured the La Lechera Art Centre, a former milk powder factory being transformed into an artistic hub.

The next day included a visit to a public institution in Torrelavega that provides training and job opportunities for young people at risk of social exclusion. This site, formerly a childcare facility for factory workers' families, highlighted local youth training programs.

Stakeholders presented good practices, followed by a steering committee meeting to discuss ongoing activities, management, communication strategies, and future planning.

The highlight of the trip was visiting Cabárceno Natural Park, a former iron mine turned wildlife sanctuary, exemplifying environmental conservation and sustainable tourism. The park's dedication to preserving biodiversity through breeding programs and international conservation efforts left a lasting impression.

The visit concluded with reflections on the importance of collaboration and preserving local identity within global initiatives.