Overview

The Kama Tri-City Integrated Masterplan aimed to revitalise three interconnected cities in the Ural Mountains of Russia, a region rich in natural resources but facing severe population decline and infrastructural challenges. The region’s remote location, combined with a lack of modern infrastructure, had led to a shrinking working-age population, posing significant socio-economic challenges. Jochen Rabe, as project director for Buro Happold, in collaboration with KK Architects, was tasked with developing a comprehensive masterplan to breathe new life into the area, while balancing economic development and social regeneration.

Approach

The Kama Tri-City Integrated Masterplan aimed to revitalise three interconnected cities in the Ural Mountains of Russia, a region rich in natural resources but facing severe population decline and infrastructural challenges. The region’s remote location, combined with a lack of modern infrastructure, had led to a shrinking working-age population, posing significant socio-economic challenges. Buro Happold, in collaboration with KK Architects, was tasked with developing a comprehensive masterplan to breathe new life into the area, while balancing economic development and social regeneration.

Outcomes

This is Armenia’s investment in its future, ensuring knowledge and innovation contribute to the nation's development. The Kama Tri-City masterplan delivered significant and far-reaching outcomes for the region:

Strategic Regional Framework: The plan provided a comprehensive framework to manage the transition of the region, addressing the interconnected needs of economic revitalisation, demographic challenges, and urban development. This strategic direction offers a clear path for sustainable growth in the years to come.

System Strategy and Infrastructure Upgrades: The masterplan identified key infrastructural improvements, particularly in transport, which were essential for linking the cities more effectively to each other and to the wider country. These upgrades are crucial for stimulating economic activity and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

Programme Delivery and Regeneration Organisation: The plan set out clear objectives for the regeneration of the three cities, including specific targets for housing, infrastructure, and social services. It also outlined the organisational structures necessary to deliver these ambitious projects efficiently.

Environmental Integration and Long-Term Sustainability: The masterplan incorporated environmental strategies to ensure that natural resources were managed sustainably, and that development efforts would not compromise the region’s ecological balance. This approach to environmental management ensures the region’s long-term sustainability while supporting economic growth.

The Kama Tri-City Integrated Masterplan exceeded expectations by delivering a socially and economically viable regeneration strategy. It now serves as a model for sustainable urban retrofits, setting a new standard for similar projects across Russia and beyond.

Client

Uralkali Berezniki, Russian Federation 2011-2013

Partner

Buro Happold (project delivered during tenure)

CKSA

Timeline

2011-2014