The project’s research perspective points out alternative paths of development, in which three fields of spatial planning innovation are explored:
Open space and green infrastructure: Alternative perspectives require research on the potential of temporary and flexible uses and on the options of re-naturalization and reintroduction of agricultural/forest uses. Concepts of infrastructural landscapes and ecological services are seen holding potential to tackle the challenges of climatic change and circular urban metabolism and improve water- and soil-related resilience. These may also be explored as alternative economic vectors for the territory and for urban open space.
Mobility networks: This research’s approach is focused on the optimization of intermediate level networks (i.e. smart/soft mobility), along with the development of better interfacing solutions between mobility, public space and eco-systemic networks. Adjustment to the funding framework also requires further insight to move from building cycle towards life cycle logics, with the reassessment of cost/benefit issues.
Territorial regeneration: Research perspective builds on alternative concepts to metropolitan patterns, such as porosity and multi-scale open space networks. These spatial concepts can be crossed with a programmatic reassessment of territorial and urban regeneration operations, in which multi-scalarity, informality and spatial/functional forms of transience can play an important role. With a special focus on open space and its programmatic re-use (e.g. for urban agriculture, forest and ecological services), the contribution of circular metabolism cycles can be addressed from a spatial planning policy perspective.