Revitalization of a degraded area – Przystań Cesarska in Gdańsk

Abstract

Aim: The project to revitalize Przystań Cesarska (Emperor’s Harbour) in Gdańsk is aimed at identifying opportunities to transform a degraded port area into a modern, attractive place for residents and tourists.

Methodology: The research included analysis of literature, reports, documents and legal acts, field research, statistical data analysis, cartographic analysis, functional analysis of the case study, bench-marking and SWOT analysis. Key steps included site selection, data collection, field research and analysis of the marina environment. Examples of revitalized marinas, such as Marina Aker Brygge in Oslo, Marina Frapa in Rogoznica and OneOcean Port Vell in Barcelona, were used to establish critical success factors (CSFs).

Results: The results of the survey indicate that there is a low level of awareness of the existence of Emperor’s Harbour among residents and the poor condition of the infrastructure, which contributes to its low attractiveness. Most respondents rate the aesthetics of the marina as ‘neglected’, highlighting the need for major modernization work.

Implications and recommendations: Proposals include the renovation of infrastructure, the creation of new recreational areas, the clean-up of parking spaces and the increase of food and retail services. The project aims to create a multifunctional urban space that will contribute to the sustainable development of Gdansk.

Originality/value: The work is a valuable contribution to the discussion on the revitalization of port areas in historic cities, emphasizing the importance of aesthetics and functionality of public space to increase its attractiveness. The revitalization of Przystań Cesarska could become a model for other similar projects, emphasizing the importance of integrating various urban functions such as recrea-tional and leisure, tourism, cultural, social integration, and addressing the needs of both the local community and tourists.