Old Industrial Sites - Conversion to Parks: Potential of Bratislava

摘要

Old industrial sites, areas which lost their former production, transport or infrastructural functions, brownfields in urban structure of the cities, possess a strong development potential. At the same time, they often hold important historical and cultural values, but in many cases also environmental burdens. Their conversions to the new functions reflect various factors. Many examples of successful conversions of urban brownfields and historic urban industrial complexes towards greenspaces, from the cities all over the world, exhibit both social benefits and environmental gains. The benefits of regeneration of the former industrial areas and brownfields to greenspaces include for example the provision of space for play and recreation in urban environment, enhancing the scenic beauty and neighbourhood appeal, improving the healthy urban environments, raising property values, provision of ecosystem services, habitats for wildlife, fostering adaptation to climate change and many others. The research examines the former historic production areas in Bratislava and analyses their conversion potential towards greenspace development. The factors influencing the greening of urban post-industrial landscapes and the conversion of old industrial sites to urban parks in Bratislava are discussed. The results of the research show that there are several former historic industrial areas in the urban structure of Bratislava that are suitable for greenspace development, and where their conversion towards greenspace can improve the quality of life and bring social and environmental benefits for urban structure. Local government, local communities and other stakeholders are able to influence the decisions on the future use and development of these post-industrial sites as potential locations for greenspace.