Italy's Simplification Decree Risks Paralyzing Urban Regeneration in Rome

Raffaele Giannitelli, an engineer and urban designer, criticizes Italy's DL Semplificazione (Simplification Decree) for hindering urban regeneration, particularly in Rome. The decree, intended to streamline building processes, instead imposes strict rules on demolition and reconstruction in historic zones (zone A), which in Rome covers nearly 7,000 hectares including areas like Tiburtino, Valle Aurelia, Cassia, and EUR. Article 10 of DL 76/2020 requires that in zone A, demolition and reconstruction only be allowed within detailed recovery plans approved by the municipal council, a lengthy bureaucratic process. Additionally, buildings under cultural heritage protection must maintain original shape, facades, and volume, preventing any modernization. Giannitelli argues this blocks innovation and revitalization, favoring a preservationist approach that he compares to the architectural ideology of Prince Charles. He notes that the decree fails to incorporate citizen participation or contemporary art in urban processes, missing a chance for cultural innovation. The law, he says, was influenced by organized citizen groups in Rome opposing change. He calls for amendments to remove these obstacles and promote democratic, high-quality urban transformation.