The images of 1976 and the drawings of architect Bashkim Fehmiu testify that Ulpiana was designed as an urban integrity, where buildings, greenery and common spaces were part of a single vision.
This concept, nearly five decades later, is the focus of the debate on the proposed construction of the Fountain space.
Bashkim Fehmiu had conceived the neighbourhood not only as residential space, but as an organised, green, pedestrian paths and common environments. The plan was developed at the time when Pristina was expanding in the southeast direction, during the years BAR60 and 5070.
Ulpiana’s value lies not only in buildings but also in their report of free spaces, greenery, and the surrounding environment. That is precisely what, according to architect Ilir Djindolli, constitutes the urban character of the neighborhood and must be preserved.
Against the proposed intervention at the Fountain has been declared the Association of Kosovo architects. In the November 10 response, it calls Ulpiana urban heritage and stresses that free spaces, greenery and the ratio between buildings are an integral part of its architecture. According to the Association, even if the Fountain remains intact, a new construction can affect the urban integrity of the neighbourhood.
The Pristina municipality has proposed the construction of an accommodation facility, if deemed necessary for the 2030 Mediterranean Games, as well as an underground parking lot. Chairman of Progress Rama has declared that the Fountain will remain intact, the object will have no commercial destination and the proposal will not continue without the support of residents.
But this project’s connection to the Mediterranean Games has raised questions about its involvement in the official planning of this organisation. The minister responsible for the sport has declared that the project at the Fountain’s location is not part of the Mediterranean Games’ planning, citing the Students Centre as a priority location for their needs.
Source Layer: RTKLive