Hungary hosts first PROXIMITIES Stakeholder Group Meeting

On 9th July, the Municipality of Veszprém in Hungary held its first Regional Stakeholder Group  meeting. Despite the hot summer day, the turnout was impressive, with 18 attendees.  The meeting brought together a diverse range of organisations, including three faculties from the University of Pannonia, Veszprém2030 Infrastructural Development Ltd., Veszprém-Balaton 2023 Co. Ltd (European Capital of Culture team), the County Library, Maltese Charity, Community for Kadarta Association, V-busz Veszprém Public Transport Ltd, and the Veszprém Utility Company. Internally, representatives from the Strategic Department, Urban Management , and Social and Urban Development departments also participated.

All invitees  were asked for feedback on four themes: the focus area of Veszprém in the project, challenges regarding peripheral areas, learning needs, and good practices.

During the discussion, defining the peripheral area for Veszprém emerged as a challenge. The group agreed that each Regional Stakeholder Group member would provide a list of what they consider peripheral areas. These areas will be analysed using a matrix of five Proximity leverages to identify hotspots and focus areas for further project work. 

The inaugural meeting concluded with informal discussions, where several attendees expressed their excitement about the PROXIMITIES project, recognising its potential for regional development.