Reinventing the fringe

Düsseldorf (DE) used the opportunity of an URBACT network to transfer innovative approaches from other cities to the needs of its urban fringe. A key feature in Garath, a suburb on Düsseldorf’s southern fringe, is public involvement in creating an Integrated Action Plan, which was approved by the city council in 2017 and continues until 2027. The aim is to improve the life of people in socially-deprived urban areas. Conclusions gained from its implementation are now part of the Integrated Neighbourhood Development, ‘ZUKUNFT QUARTIER.DÜSSELDORF’ (ZQ.D), with lessons learned also transferred to other areas in Düsseldorf. Public and private funding has been allocated in this comprehensive approach, and its benefits are experienced first-hand in the daily lives of Garath’s residents.