Towards the Regeneration of Bagnoli Naples: Sea, Coastline, and Active Participation in the LP2 Project

Urban coastal areas of Bagnoli, a neighborhood within the 10th Municipality of Naples and deeply influenced by its industrial past, play a crucial role in addressing significant marine and ecological challenges. This study adopts a marine sociology perspective (Zacharias, 2014) to explore effective strategies for urban regeneration, emphasizing the critical role of the sea and coastline. Focused on enhancing sustainability, livability, mobility, and equitable service distribution, this research highlights the importance of ecological management in urban environments. Action research stimulates co-participation by merging scientific insights with local expertise, thus promoting integration that facilitates shared responsibilities and encourages intersectoral cooperation as effective strategies for urban development (Saija, 2016). This investigation specifically addresses a community-based approach to urban regeneration in Bagnoli, an area designated as a Site of National Interest due to high pollution levels from its industrial past. The use of participatory tools such as Participatory GIS, coupled with active stakeholder engagement, is essential for enabling the local community to identify urban challenges and collaboratively develop strategic solutions (Carley & Smith, 2013; Edwards, 2009). The "LP2 - Lido Pola Permanent Laboratory" project, recognized as an Urban Common (resolution no. 446/2016) and awarded by the Ministry of Culture’s Creative Living Lab, serves as a case study. It aims to regenerate the Lido Pola terrace, focusing efforts on reconnecting environmental and social ecosystems and emphasizing the ecological restoration of the sea and coastline. This project is a critical component of the broader initiative to promote ecological and social rejuvenation in Bagnoli, exemplifying how targeted urban regeneration efforts can catalyze significant environmental and community benefits.