interview: Guisela Chiarella
Regional and municipal officials met on Monday to advance the administrative process for Co.Re., a redevelopment project aimed at reshaping Trieste’s waterfront. The initiative, led by the Friuli Venezia Giulia Regional Government and the Municipality of Trieste, seeks to balance environmental sustainability with improved public spaces and coastal resilience.
The meeting, attended by Regional Councilor for Environmental Protection, Energy, and Sustainable Development Fabio Scoccimarro, Trieste Mayor Roberto Dipiazza, and municipal councillors Elisa Lodi and Michele Babuder, included discussions with regional planners and engineers. Officials reviewed technical and economic feasibility studies and urban planning adjustments necessary for the project.
“The goal is to combine tradition with innovation, creating new spaces and services for residents and visitors while ensuring environmental sustainability,” Scoccimarro said. He noted that the initiative had been in development before the storm surges that struck the Trieste coastline in late 2023.
The Co.Re. project does not propose a full expansion of the coastline, which officials described as financially and environmentally unsustainable. Instead, the plan focuses on coastal protection measures, enhanced public access, and infrastructure improvements. The development is divided into 15 phases, allowing costs to be spread over multiple years and limiting disruptions, particularly during the summer.
A participatory process has informed the project’s direction. Regional and municipal consultations confirmed support for redevelopment efforts while maintaining elements of Trieste’s coastal identity. Officials emphasized that features such as the Topolini—a series of distinctive seaside bathing structures—will be preserved and renovated. Plans also include expanded parking, improved traffic circulation, and new docking areas for maritime public transport.
Additionally, the proposal incorporates recreational facilities, including a dedicated arena for water polo and canoe polo, reflecting Trieste’s longstanding reputation as a sports-focused city.
Further refinements to architectural details are expected as the project moves toward finalization.
Interview: Regional Councilor for Environmental Protection, Energy, and Sustainable Development Fabio Scoccimarro
