The Kavala Strategic Agenda 2030 has been a joint effort of URBASOFIA, TASCA Studio and Eurodite companies, together with international experts and planners such as Mr. Derek Martin, Ms. Daniela Patti, Mr. Levente Polyak, which have contributed to the shaping of the city's strategy for the next 15 years.
This output was part of the STATUS Project, an European Union cofunded project focusing on assisting city authorities of the SEE (South East Europe) countries in developing Strategic Territorial/Urban Agendas, as a tool for sustainable and integrated development in line with 21st century standards, and in implementing Urban Centers, as places where to shape, together with active local actors, the planning process that leads to the definition of strategic visions and the design of integrated urban plans.
As part of the URBASOFIA team (content management for the whole project), I have primarily focused on developing the touristic strategy for the city and on assisting coordination of the overall process, including the finalizing of the textual Agenda.
KAVALA - Knowledge and Attitude to Valorizing Amazing Local Assets
In 2030, the Kavala Municipality represents a world-renown touristic destination, encompassing heritage of multi-continental importance, including the northernmost UNESCO site in Greece. A year-round active touristic hub, the Municipality distances itself from other destinations as a polyvalent destination with an ample offer in what regards cultural, religious and archaeological heritage, therapeutic and wellness, lifestyle, event and blue tourism.
Through the creative use of its local natural and cultural assets, Kavala has managed to position itself as a highly liveable city, benefitting from an increase in population – especially youth and qualified graduates – reflected in a steady economic growth and a very well ranked technical university.
In 2030, the Kavala Municipality represents a world-renown touristic destination, encompassing heritage of multi-continental importance, including the northernmost UNESCO site in Greece. A year-round active touristic hub, the Municipality distances itself from other destinations as a polyvalent destination with an ample offer in what regards cultural, religious and archaeological heritage, therapeutic and wellness, lifestyle, event and blue tourism.
Through the creative use of its local natural and cultural assets, Kavala has managed to position itself as a highly liveable city, benefitting from an increase in population – especially youth and qualified graduates – reflected in a steady economic growth and a very well ranked technical university.
Kavala Poster Plan, drafted by TASCA Studio of Bologna, Italy
Its broad economic base and innovative approach to new business models have aided the creation of a smart community with a strong identity, encouraging spillovers between its main economic sectors. Developing endogenously, Kavala has invested mainly in tourism, but also in agriculture, energy, healthcare and wellness, transport and logistics, an aspect which transformed the city into a stable local economy, very attractive to foreign investors.
The waterfront is the city’s strong point, and its touristic port, walkable public spaces and multipurpose buildings (including the Kavala Urban Center) represent a point of convergence for tourists and inhabitants alike. The regeneration of Kavala’s waterfront has reshaped the relationship of the city with Thassos, now a secondary pole of attraction in the area. Towards the north, the city keeps a strong relation with its hinterland, not only through the endogenous economic connection of consuming local produce from farmers and family-run agricultural businesses, but also through its touristic and agritouristic activities. The network of local producers, which helped position Kavala in the region as a quality agricultural product generator, is continuously developing under a unique local brand selling internationally through the tourism network.
Pillar 1 - Sustainable Tourism. Source - Own graphic
Within the city, liveability is apparent through the platform of public spaces and the quality of the town’s regenerated areas: Western access, upper downtown and eastern access, not long ago struggling neighbourhoods, are now thriving residential, industrial, creative areas. The Tobacco Warehouses and other industrial heritage have been successfully redeveloped, making Kavala a city that does not deny its history, but valorises every facet of it.
Last but not least, in 2030, Kavala represents a city where good governance, collaboration and community engagement represent the pillars of development, where dialogue is ensured through creative spaces for social convergence and where long-term vision and continuity have aided in the reversal of the urban exodus characteristic of small and middle-sized European cities.
Last but not least, in 2030, Kavala represents a city where good governance, collaboration and community engagement represent the pillars of development, where dialogue is ensured through creative spaces for social convergence and where long-term vision and continuity have aided in the reversal of the urban exodus characteristic of small and middle-sized European cities.
