Scholarly record

SOCIAL ASPECTS OF REVITALIZATION OF POST-RAILWAY SITES

J. A. Pawlowicz

Abstract

In the face of evolutions in Polish railway, and of its division as well as complex problems the localities which serviced busy railway traffic lost their importance. The former junctions, handling stations and railway settlements, presently are subject to uncontrolled changes and natural destruction. It also happened in the case of I?owo-Osada (Poland) .In the 19th century, this settlement thanks to the railway line was blooming, but at present forgotten and neglected experiences stagnation.As the railway is being restructured, and as the infrastructure is being upgraded currently in the locality, these actions interfere in the former layout, the prospective of development should be analysed and the effort ought to be made to preserve history and tradition of the locality. A revitalisation of post-railway sites when properly done, combined with a revalorisation of building is a chance for preserving the identity and for improvement of the esthetical values and the life quality of the inhabitants.The aim of this article is to show some concepts of revitalisation of the post-railway site in I?owo. The article was based on the results of an internet survey conducted among the local community. It enabled to arouse the care of the locals for the destiny of their home locality. It made them aware of the strength of tradition and of identity of the place of their origin and of their living. The revitalisation of the post-railway sites in I?owo may influence on a better image of the locality by visitors, as well-kept and ordered, but it would also emphasise elements of cultural landscape. It would also activate the local community for efforts to improve social conditions and comfort of life.

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