Kick off of PROXIMITIES!

Eight European territories have successfully launched the ambitious interregional Interreg Europe Project “PROXIMITIES — Promoting Accessible Services, Liveable Spaces, and Sustainable Connections in Peripheral Urban Territories.” This exciting collaboration aims to make peripheral urban areas across Europe more accessible, healthy, inclusive, and sustainable.

At the recent kick-off meeting in Reggio Emilia, Italy, partners emphasised the critical challenges faced by peripheral urban areas, including disparities in service and infrastructure, economic and social segregation, and environmental sustainability. These issues impact not only the quality of life in these areas but also their long-term resilience and economic viability.

"We are excited to kick start the PROXIMITIES project," expressed Paolo Gandolfi, Director of Territorial Development Area from the Municipality of Reggio Emilia. "This project is not just about improving urban peripheries; it’s about transforming them into thriving, sustainable communities that enhance the quality of life for all residents. By working together with our European partners, we aim to implement best practices and innovative approaches to urban development."

The project, led by the Municipality of Reggio Emilia in Italy, has garnered support from the Erasmus Centre for Urban, Port and Transport Economics BV at University of Rotterdam as the advisory partner, along with regional and municipal partners from Ireland, Spain, Latvia, Romania, Hungary, and Sweden. Each brings unique expertise and perspectives that will contribute to the project’s goals. PROXIMITIES is part of the broader European effort to address urban peripheral challenges and promote sustainable development.

The project will focus on several key areas:

• Economy and Services: Promoting local economies and services within walking distance to foster a proximity economy.
• Sustainable Mobility: Enhancing green transportation options and soft mobility connections.
• Public Space Quality: Improving the liveability and resilience of urban spaces.
• Community and Social Integration: Building stronger community ties and enhancing social interactions.
• Governance: Encouraging integrated and collaborative urban planning and policymaking. Over the next four years, PROXIMITIES aims to set a benchmark for transforming European peripheral areas into model regions of sustainability and inclusivity.

Over the next four years, PROXIMITIES aims to set a benchmark for transforming European peripheral areas into model regions of sustainability and inclusivity.