Professionals under the auspices of Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN) have asked the Tinubu-led federal government to consider urban regeneration as one of its top priorities in 2025.
Justifying the need for urban regeneration across the country, they pointed out that it would enhance livability, boost economy, reduce environmental impact, preserve heritage, engage stakeholders, and support health and well-being, reports Nigerian Tribune.
According to a compilation of experts’ views by the Research and Intelligence Department of HDAN, urban regeneration would enhance the livability of urban areas by creating more attractive, safe, and functional spaces for residents and visitors.
Urban regeneration, they added would improve the quality of housing, public services, transport, green spaces, cultural amenities, and social cohesion. By addressing the needs and preferences of different groups, urban regeneration, they said would foster a sense of belonging and identity among urban dwellers.
The experts explained urban regeneration would boost the economy of urban areas by attracting more investment, employment, innovation, and tourism.
Urban regeneration, they added could revitalize old industries, promote new sectors, diversify the economic base, and increase the competitiveness and resilience of urban economies.
“By stimulating the growth and development of urban areas, urban regeneration can generate more income and opportunities for local businesses and workers,” they said.
Urban regeneration, they pointed out could reduce environmental impact of urban areas by enhancing their efficiency, resilience, and adaptability.
They said: “Urban regeneration can reduce the consumption of energy, water, and materials, lower the emissions of greenhouse gases and pollutants, increase the use of renewable and low-carbon sources, and improve the management of waste and resources.
“By improving the environmental performance and quality of urban areas, urban regeneration can mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change and other environmental challenges.”
“A fourth benefit of urban regeneration is that it preserves the heritage of urban areas by conserving and restoring their historic and cultural assets. Urban regeneration can protect and enhance the architectural, artistic, and archaeological value of urban buildings, monuments, and landscapes, as well as the intangible heritage of urban traditions, practices, and identities. By respecting and celebrating the heritage of urban areas, urban regeneration can enrich their diversity and distinctiveness,” the experts said.
A fifth benefit of urban regeneration, according to them, was that it would engage stakeholders in the planning, design, implementation, and evaluation of urban projects.
Urban regeneration, they added could involve the participation and collaboration of various actors, such as public authorities, private investors, civil society organizations, local communities, and experts.
“By engaging stakeholders in the decision-making and governance of urban areas, urban regeneration can increase their awareness, empowerment, and ownership of urban issues and solutions,” they said.
“The sixth benefit of urban regeneration is that it supports the health and well-being of urban populations by enhancing their physical, mental, and social well-being. Urban regeneration can improve the accessibility and availability of health care, education, recreation, and leisure facilities and services, as well as the quality and safety of the urban environment. By supporting the health and well-being of urban populations, urban regeneration can contribute to their happiness and satisfaction,” the research and intelligence department of HDAN said.
