Urbani izziv Volume 19, No. 2, December 2008
: 183–192
(Thematic articles)
UDK: 711.28(497.451.1):625.712.1+621.311.21
doi: 10.5379/urbani-izziv-en-2008-19-02-009
Author
Aleš MLAKAR
Prostorsko načrtovanje Aleš Mlakar s. p., Ljubljana, Slovenia
Title
Urban green areas as the starting point for planning hydroelectric and urban developments: The case of the Sava River in the City of Ljubljana
Abstract
The article deals with the landscape and urbanistic layout of the Sava River space and North part of the Bežigrad stretch of Ljubljana. Focus is on methodological and content starting points for the layout preparation and development of urban green areas of the wider Sava River space, which as a connecting link and simultaneously independent spatial and functional entity represents the starting point for planning hydro-energetic and urban arrangements. The necessity of recognising and resolving real spatial planning issues, formulation of clear goals and concepts, confrontation of different spatial systems and interests, as well as the sensibility of devising alternative development scenarios are emphasised. One of the most important starting points of the proposed layout is comprehensive design of public open spaces and green areas. The urbanistic solution relies on a programmatically strong, distinct and structured Dunajska Street, which should transform into the public space of a modern urban artery, with a clear ending that simultaneously gradually adapts to the morphology akin to the surroundings and Sava River space. Because of its natural characteristics, preserved cultural landscape and good accessibility, this area has great potential for development of leisure activities. The proposed solution stems from the fact that the chain of hydro-electric plants shouldn't be seen as buildings with negative environmental effects, but also as development opportunities – the actual execution of a recreation area along the Sava River and a method for rehabilitating the degraded spaces. Comprehensive solutions along the river have been proposed as parts of the hydro-electric developments, with special attention focusing on active design of various riverbank types.
Key Words
urban green areas, urbanistic planning, hydro-electric power plant, Ljubljana, Sava