Datenbank der Projekte zur ländlichen Entwicklung
Improving quality of life for rural residents of Svilengrad in Bulgaria
Summary
A 'village renewal' type project improving external living space through environmental works and new recreation facilities for young people. The project aimed to make the rural community a more attractive place to live, work and visit.
Background
Svilengrad is situated in Southeast Bulgaria near the borders with Turkey and Greece. The municipality has around 22,815 inhabitants. Summer months here are hot and dry and the local park was the only “green” area used for recreation during summer months. Other parks in the local area were not maintained for more than 15 years. They were invaded by scrubs and bushes and were avoided by the local population. The project, initiated by young people, focused on rehabilitation of 4 green areas.
Objective
The main objective of the project was to rehabilitate 4 green areas in Svilengrad and to make the city more attractive for younger people. This project supports the Rural Development Programme's efforts to tackle the pressures which fuel out-migration, brain-drains and depopulation in rural areas. The project forms part of €3 million municipal initiative that includes reconstruction and renovation of the local library and sports facilities.
Main activities
Rural Development Programme funds were used to: rehabilitate 4 green areas in Svilengrad; plant trees and bushes (suitable for the climate conditions in the area); create open places for children’s games; create paths and walking areas; and install an automatic system for irrigation of the newly planted trees, bushes and flowers.
Results & Benefits
This project was the municipality's first project that was successfully implemented with Rural Development Programme support. Results have helped to improve living conditions and overall quality of life for residents in the project area. These outputs are helping to dissuade young people from leaving the local area in search of better living conditions.
Lessons learnt
The main lesson learnt refers to the role that Rural Development Programme support can provide in tackling rural depopulation pressures. Another useful lesson learnt from the project relates to the consultation that occurred with young people about their priorities for this project. Involving young people in decision-making processes for rural development projects helps to empower them and leads to results that are relevant for the target groups.
Project location and other information
Svilengrad, Hskovo district, Bulgaria
Region
Haskovo
RDP Territory
Bulgaria
Total project cost (€)
474 320
EAFRD contribution (€)
379 456
National contribution (€)
94 864
Contact name
Milena Yaneva
Telephone
+359 379 7 43 31
Languages for contact
English, Bulgarian
At a glance
Country
Bulgaria
Final beneficiary type
Public/local authorities
Budget range
€100 000 - €500 000
Start date:
23/10/2009
End Date:
15/01/2011
Theme / Measure:
Rural Quality of Life & Economic Diversification
Improving quality of life in rural areas
322. Village renewal and development
Keywords:
Recreation area, Local authority, Village facilities, Village renewal, Young people
Last update
22/06/2012