Urban Planning for Social Resilience –
Learn to Build Impact from the Ground Up

Urban Planning for Social Resilience – Learn to Build Impact from the Ground Up

Yeitonia +

“Yeitonia+” (Neighborhood +), led by the Cyprus Energy Agency with the Cyprus University of Technology and the Office of the Environment Commissioner, revitalizes neighborhoods through pedestrian-friendly spaces, more green areas, and reduced car dependency, using community workshops and mapping to shape a more livable environment. It emphasizes trust-building, social cohesion, and local ownership to boost neighborhood resilience and air quality.

About The Case Study

“Yeitonia+” (Neighborhood +) is a transformative initiative led by the Cyprus Energy Agency in collaboration with the Cyprus University of Technology and the Office of the Environment Commissioner, aimed at revitalizing neighborhoods by creating pedestrian-friendly spaces, increasing green areas, and improving infrastructure. Inspired by the success of similar projects abroad and insights from the COVID-19 lockdowns, the initiative seeks to reduce car dependency while enhancing social interactions and inclusivity. It addresses issues such as excessive car use, lack of recreational spaces, and the improper use of neighborhoods for parking or waste disposal. Through community workshops, mapping exercises, and active engagement, residents have provided crucial input on their needs and vision for a more livable environment. The project has fostered collaboration with local authorities and partners, with an emphasis on scaling up the initiative and implementing pilot projects. Despite challenges like previous distrust in local authorities and slow responses, the project aims to strengthen social cohesion, improve air quality, and boost neighborhood resilience. Key lessons highlight the importance of community involvement, trust-building, and ensuring local ownership in the transformation process.

Topics:

Public Space Development & Management
Urban Design & Planning Processes
Urban Regeneration & Rehabilitation

Resilience Challenges:

Social and cultural resilience

Type of Civic Engagement Supporting Neighborhood Resilience:

Collaborative planning projects or processes
Long-term, more institutionalized engagement
Short-term, more flexible project-based engagement

Level of Civic Participation:

Collaboration or co-operation
Involvement or participation

Stakeholders Involved:

Academic and research institutions
Community members
Local Government
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)