Social integration square in Siemiatycze receives EU support

The financial support for the first stage of construction exceeds 70% of the total

The Polish city of Siemiatycze has received European funding for the first stage of the construction of a future Social integration square, as was announced by the authorities last week. The amount exceeds 70% of the expenses related to the first construction stage and is provided under the Regional Operational Program of the Podlaskie Voivodeship.

Essential EU support

The project for the construction of the important public space in the Polish city of Siemiatycze (eastern Poland) received a boost from the EU. The amount of PLN 392,998.44 was provided for the implementation of the first stage of a project entitled “Small revitalization in the City of Siemiatycze: Social integration square.”

The financial help constitutes 71.72% of the costs for the implementation of the first stage of the project. This way, the first stage, planned from September 2020 to the end of June 2021, gets the green light.

The tendering procedures and signing of the contract are planned for this year and the construction of the square itself will start in 2021. Due to the total cost of building Plac Integracji Społecznej (the Polish name of the project) amounting to almost PLN 3 million, this task was divided into three stages. The city is currently trying to obtain funds for the implementation of the other two parts of the project.

The new facility in Siemiatycze will revitalize currently unused land. Image: Municipality of Siemiatycze

The design of the square involves the division of the area into various zones for play and recreation that will welcome residents of all ages. The first stage involves the construction of paved alleys (280 square metres), lawns (2735 square metres), safety surfaces, fences, lighting and installation of small architectural elements, such as benches, litter bins, zip lines, wooden wigwam, four hills with tunnels, a rocker on springs in the form of a surfboard, a climbing wall and elements of an outdoor gym.

Why construct a social integration square?

The aim of the project for the construction of a social integration square is the development of currently unused land (9462 square metres) and making it available to residents, including people with disabilities, as a place for activities and social integration. Equipped with devices and installations adapted to the needs of different age groups, the square will be an attractive place for everyone, especially for children, adolescents and people over 50, believe the authorities.

Finally, the infrastructure is designed to perform functions well beyond recreation, as it is also adapted to facilitate building relationships and social ties, social integration and activation. Furthermore, the construction of Plac Integracji Społecznej is expected to improve public safety in the revitalized area.