Where:

Nantes is a city in western France with a metropolitan area that is home to approximately 600,000 people. The I'lle De Nantes regeneration project comprises a 337-hectare former industrial site located in the heart of the city along the banks of the river Loire. 

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When:

Phase 1 took place between 2000-2010 and sought to develop a new creative cluster that focused on social inclusion and sustainability. Bridges and roads were also built to reconnect the island with the rest of the city. 

Phase 2 is ongoing with an expected completion date of 2030 and seeks to build upon the success of the first phase with a further emphasis on economic and envoronmental sustainability. 

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Background

Throughout the beginning of the 20th Century, the area was thriving due to its boat building and freight activities however a prolonged period of industrialisation led the closure of the port in  1987, leaving a large derelict wasteland in the heart of the city. The 1990's saw policy makers seek a better future for the area with the introduction of cultural events such as the Festival Des Allumes and the establishment of Royal de Luxe theatre company and their success resulted in a decades-long programme to continue with the regeneration of the area through cultural endeavours. 

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Regeneration process:

• A holistic approach to regeneration was sought that focused on three main pillars: culture and creative industries, social diversity and sustainability. 

• Such regeneration is a result of ambitious political leadership and clear cultural policies. 

• An urban development agency has been set up to coordinate and support the creation of the new creative quarter which seeks to help small businesses in securing finance, networking and locating workshop space among other activities. 

• The Green Island Initiative was established in 2013 which seeks to identify and implement solutions to social challenges during the redevelopment process. 

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Success?

• By completion in 2030, 10,000 housing units (22% affordable), 450,000 sqm of new office space and 350,000 sqm of new infrastructure will have been created from the old docks. It is seen as a sustainable project due to its unwavering political support and log-term planning. 

• The tourism sector welcomed 540,000 visitors in 2014, compared to 140,000 in 2005. 

• Mainstreaming of eco-friendly policies during the regeneration including zero-carbon buildings and green public transportation and an emphasis on social sustainability has created a place that benefits people and not just large corporations. 

• Such emphasis on culture has contributed greatly to the projects' success however with the threat of subsequent gentrification, the island insures that social housing and student accommodation remains a priority.     

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(All information gathered from: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1NSgcdkIiO8r1qyon3koVMvAQMOv482B2/edit)