Youth Insights Drive PROXIMITIES Workshop in Varberg!

As part of the  PROXIMITIES project, students from Varberg, Sweden, and Ferentino, Italy, came together for a dynamic workshop focused on urban development and access to services. Hosted at a high school in Varberg, the event was a collaborative effort to explore how young people experience access to everyday services in their respective communities.

The workshop, led by Jenny and Ulrika from the Municipality of Varberg, provided a platform for students to exchange insights as part of their Erasmus exchange. This international programme offers students the chance to study or intern abroad, fostering cultural exchange and enhancing their understanding of the European Union's global goals, including those for sustainable cities and communities.

During the session, students discussed their personal experiences with access to essential services such as grocery shops and schools. They emphasised the importance of having restaurants, cafés, and social spaces within reach, alongside opportunities for leisure activities, such as sports. The discussions highlighted the value young adults place on services that contribute to a vibrant and connected community.

The insights gathered from this workshop will be combined with results from similar activities across Europe, helping to shape a deeper understanding of service flows and the future needs of communities. This knowledge will be instrumental in guiding the PROXIMITIES project’s efforts to support sustainable urban planning and development.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to work towards building stronger, more inclusive peripheral urban communities across Europe.