Złotów. Wielkopolskie Zdroje (Zlotów. Greater Poland springs)

Project facts

Project promoter:
City of Złotów-LD(PL)
Project Number:
PL-LOCALDEV-0015
Status:
Completed
Final project cost:
€4,111,123
Donor Project Partners:
Elverum municipality(NO)
Other Project Partners
Association of the Zlotowski Expeditionary Corps-LD(PL)
Złotów Commune-LD(PL)
Złotów County-LD(PL)
Złotów Forest inspectorate-LD(PL)
Programme:

Description

Why is the project needed?:Two main problems:Low use of endogenous resources to stimulate the town''s development/Decline of local social potential as a result of the town''s offer losing its attractiveness.The lack of new factors driving local economic growth, and thus the wealth of the inhabitants, and at the same time building the attractiveness of the town as a place to live, is a key challenge for local environment.The local economy needs new development impulses that will ensure a stable growth of competitiveness based on other development factors than before.How will the project address these challenges?Development of a diagnosis of the use of the town''s natural resources for healing purpose/Preparation of documentation in order to create a smart, green and safe town /Creating conditions for the development of effective and adapted to the needs of the local labour market education/Preparation and implementation of urban investments for the development of the town and in infrastructure for spending free time/Ecological and energy-saving urban infrastructure.What plan to achieve?vision:a climate neutral health and active recreation centre. A town of clean lakes and greenery, attractive to live, study and work. The heart of the historic Krajna.Strategic objectives:A town park, with high water and air quality, comprehensively using renewable energy/A modern and open town for active people, offering attractive jobs and conditions for running a business/The town is the leader of rehabilitation and health services and the leisure industry inGreater Poland.Partners-added to project?We hope to change the model of economic development,to the one that will use the internal potentials of the town to a greater extent.We are aware that this processwill continue for years.However,by establishing partnerships that will use the experience of other cities,we count on choosing the right path for change.We hope that the established contacts will be beneficial for both parties

Summary of project results

The project was created in response to a number of demographic, social, environmental and economic problems that affect the development of the region. One of the main challenges was to stabilize the population and counteract the migration of young people to larger cities. To prevent this, the plan called for the creation of programs to support young entrepreneurs, the development of the local labor market, and the organization of cultural and educational events that would increase the city''s attractiveness to young people. In addition, special attention was given to people of post-productive age through the development of health and social infrastructure and the involvement of seniors in various social initiatives.

In the environmental area, the project focused on the problem of pollution of Zaleski Lake, which required urgent cleanup measures and the introduction of water quality monitoring systems. Environmental activities also included educational campaigns for the local community and the implementation of effective waste management systems. Another important element was the use of natural healing resources, such as mud and mineral waters. The project envisaged research into their properties and the development of health tourism through the construction of modern spas and sanatoriums that could attract tourists from at home and abroad.

Economically, a key challenge was the lack of major industrial investment and the region''s limited economic potential. In response to these difficulties, the project envisaged the creation of special economic zones that would offer tax breaks for investors, as well as cooperation with universities and research institutes to develop innovative technologies. Increasing the city''s attractiveness to tourists and investors was to be achieved through the revitalization of urban spaces, the development of tourist infrastructure and the promotion of the region as a place friendly to both business and recreation.

The last, but equally important, area of activity was improving the accessibility of public infrastructure. The project involved adapting urban spaces to the needs of people with disabilities, with the aim of improving the quality of life of residents and building a more inclusive community.

As part of the implemented project, a number of environmental, economic and social activities were carried out, which brought significant results for the city and its residents. A detailed analysis of the contamination of Zaleski Lake was carried out, which allowed the development of a biological remediation plan aimed at improving the water quality of the basin. In addition, geological boreholes and microbiological tests were performed, which confirmed the presence of high-quality mud and its therapeutic properties. These activities made it possible to prepare the groundwork for the use of local natural resources in the further development of the city.

In the context of spa development, a climate operative was prepared and certified to confirm the healing properties of Zlotow''s climate. Based on the results of these studies, plans were prepared for the construction of spa infrastructure, including projects for modern spas, sanatoriums and recreational and therapeutic zones. These measures significantly increase the city''s tourism and investment potential, opening up new opportunities for development.

Steps have also been taken to improve the accessibility of public infrastructure for people with disabilities. A vertical platform was installed at the City Hall, which was an important step toward ensuring equal access to public services for all residents.

Integral to the project was the promotion of the city and the involvement of the local community. Social media outreach campaigns were organized, as well as a number of local events, such as family picnics, aimed at increasing residents'' awareness of the ongoing activities and the region''s spa potential. These activities succeeded in strengthening the residents'' sense of community and interest in the city''s development.

Another of the measures taken was the reconstruction of the headquarters of the Activity and Entrepreneurship Support Center and the establishment of a Municipal Career Office. Modernization of the buildings located at the historic Pressure Tower was completed as planned, and the new infrastructure provided residents with better access to services supporting professional development and entrepreneurship. As a result, the number of people using the center''s offerings increased, which translated into an increase in professional activity in the region.

Another important project was the construction of a multi-care center, which was equipped with modern medical and therapeutic equipment. The facility significantly raised the standard of health and social care, providing support for dependent people and their families. Thanks to the implementation of this task, the number of places available for wards has increased, which has improved the quality of life of residents.

The project also included the establishment of a campground with full sanitary infrastructure and pitches for campers. The work included the construction of sanitary facilities, power points and improved site accessibility. The result of this activity is an increase in the number of tourists visiting Zlotow, which has had a positive impact on the tourist promotion of the city and its surroundings.

An important element of the project was the construction of a soccer field with an artificial surface and lighting. The modern facility was adapted to both sports and recreational needs, enabling the organization of competitions at the regional level. The investment contributed to the development of local sports and improved training conditions for youth and adults.

The construction of a brine graduation tower was also realized, which was located in a central point of the city and surrounded by rest areas. The graduation tower has become a tourist attraction that attracts both residents and visitors, while promoting the healthful properties of brine inhalation.

The implemented initiatives have helped to improve the environment, laid a solid foundation for the further development of Zlotow''s spa and tourism, and increased the city''s attractiveness for both residents and visitors.

The results of the project had a significant and positive impact on various beneficiary groups in Zlotow. The city''s residents have benefited from an improved quality of life due to the implementation of environmental measures, such as the cleaning of lakes, which has contributed to improving the ecological status of the region. In addition, thanks to the study of mud and healing waters, residents now have the opportunity to benefit from unique natural resources, which affects their health and well-being. Investments in urban infrastructure, such as the installation of a platform for people with disabilities at the City Hall, have made public spaces more accessible and welcoming to all.

The project''s impact has also been felt by tourists and potential visitors, for whom Zlotow has become a more attractive destination thanks to the development of the city''s spa potential. New plans to build spa and sanatorium infrastructure and promote the city as a spa destination have opened up new opportunities to attract visitors from home and abroad.

People with disabilities have benefited from increased accessibility of public spaces, which has greatly improved their living comfort and enabled them to participate more fully in the city''s social life. Investments such as adapting public buildings to their needs are a step toward a more inclusive community.

Local entrepreneurs have also benefited from the results of the project. The promotion of the city as a spa resort and the increased influx of tourists have created new opportunities for the local economy. Entrepreneurs can now develop their businesses in the tourism sector, gastronomy, spa services or regional products, resulting in increased employment and economic development in the region.

All in all, the project has had a positive impact on a variety of groups, improving the quality of life of residents, increasing the city''s attractiveness to tourists, supporting people with disabilities and opening up new economic prospects for local entrepreneurs

Summary of bilateral results

The bilateral collaboration within the project yielded numerous valuable results, significantly contributing to the development of our city and its community. Together with our Norwegian partner, we gained valuable insights that helped us better understand the needs of young people. Visits to Norway inspired us to create a dedicated space for youth, modeled after Norwegian solutions. This space aims to provide a venue for spending time and fostering a sense of belonging. One of the most important outcomes of the project was the establishment of lasting relationships with Norwegian non-governmental organizations. This collaboration has extended beyond the program framework, enabling the exchange of experiences and the implementation of new initiatives. Through this partnership, we also shifted our approach to city management, placing greater emphasis on involving residents in decision-making processes. The project also positively impacted the city’s tourism development by learning from Norwegian methods of promotion and building local attractiveness. The bilateral collaboration not only delivered tangible results but also laid the groundwork for further development and long-term initiatives to benefit the local community and youth.

Information on the projects funded by the EEA and Norway Grants is provided by the Programme and Fund Operators in the Beneficiary States, who are responsible for the completeness and accuracy of this information.