Venice Arsenal renovation plan sparks protests from local associations
In December 2021, the Venice City Council greenlit a redevelopment initiative for the Venice Arsenal, contingent on agreements with the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Defense. This initiative seeks to address the area's 2013 division, eliminate hybrid zones, enhance the Biennale, renovate existing structures, and improve public transport. It features the 'Darsena Novissima' for two yearly events and is backed by 170 million euros from the PNRR and an additional 20 million euros from 2020. Mayor Luigi Brugnaro labeled the plan as strategic. However, the local group Forum Futuro Arsenale has raised objections regarding public access and environmental concerns. Culture Minister Dario Franceschini emphasized that the project will improve public spaces. A protest is scheduled for February 6, 2022.
Key facts
- Venice City Council approved Arsenal redevelopment plan in December 2021
- Plan requires protocol agreement among municipality, Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Defense
- 170 million euros from PNRR plus 20 million from Ministry of Culture allocated
- Darsena Novissima to host up to two annual events of max 15 days
- Biennale to expand into part of the Arsenal
- Forum Futuro Arsenale leads opposition, demands public access and municipal control
- Protest scheduled for February 6, 2022 at Porta dei Leoni
- Culture Minister Dario Franceschini promises public access 365 days a year
Entities
Institutions
- Giunta Comunale di Venezia
- Comune di Venezia
- Ministero della Cultura
- Ministero della Difesa
- Demanio militare della Marina
- Marina militare
- Biennale di Venezia
- Forum Futuro Arsenale
- Arsenale di Venezia
- Salone Nautico
- Commissione Istruzione pubblica e Beni culturali del Senato
- Artribune
- PNRR
Locations
- Venezia
- Italy
- Arsenale di Venezia
- Canale delle Galeazze
- Darsena Novissima
- Porta dei Leoni