The research topic is the redevelopment of Porto Tolle power plant complex. The aim is to arrive at a scenario for the entire area, focusing not only on the feasibility of the work, but also on the preservation of the architectural features and the resilience of the lagoon landscapes and ecologies.
The power station is located in a region, part of the famous Po Delta Park, characterised by a protected lagoon on the coastal side and agricultural fields on the inland side. The area is enclosed by embankments and most of its surface is below sea level. The area is now disused and has valuable natural areas and production facilities which can be enhanced. In addition, the site is at high risk of flooding due to possible rising waters due to global warming. How to make the area open to the public again and usable not only during the year, but also in the event of rain or rising sea levels?
The project proposes an alternative scenario to the project proposed in the 2015 call for competition launched by Enel, which saw the area transformed into a large tourist camp that would have cancelled out many important features of the site and the delta landscape; the purpose is the gradual reactivation of the area within the limits set by the agreement, with the goal of transforming it into a large park where landscape and industrial archaeology form the backdrop for new practices.. The architectural remains of the machinery to the north have been converted into an industrial park and tourist campsite. The smokestack has been preserved as a landmark, and the old metal structures that once carried cooling liquids have been transformed into raised walkways that provide a bird's-eye view of the surrounding area. In the central area, the bases of the tanks have been preserved and converted into large event spaces for the campsite or, where still intact, large rainwater tanks. The landscape design focuses on enhancing the area’s existing features through green maintenance and soil modifications. In the northern and central areas, a minimal intervention approach is used, including cleaning green spaces and restoring paths. In the southern part, more prone to flooding, the terrain is shaped with relief and depression areas to act as buffers during heavy rainfall, creating small lakes to absorb excess water. The design follows an experimental landscape ecology approach, utilizing topographical features and computational tools to create new contours, including depressions and small hills, making the area usable even when submerged. Wooden walkways are constructed to ensure full accessibility throughout the park.
