Rustam Minnikhanov: For 10 years Tatarstan has gained rich experience in improvement of public spaces

On 21 August the Russian Minister of Construction and Housing Utilities Sector Irek Fayzullin, the Rais (Head) of the republic Rustam Minnikhanov, the Mayor of Kazan Ilsur Metshin and other officials took part in a business breakfast held by the Russian Ministry on the sidelines of the All-Russia Forum “The Development of small towns and historical settlements” at the Kazan Expo Exposition Center.

Speaking at the breakfast, Irek Fayzullin stated: “Today we will define 240 winners of the main competition of the best projects for creating a comfortable urban environment as well as the winners of the competition among small towns of the Maritime region.” 

He recollected how ten years ago Tatarstan began a large programme on the development of parks and gardens and emphasized: “Changes around these spaces in small towns are very serious.” 

In his turn Rustam Minnikhanov underlined that the life quality of the population is the criterion of the assessment of local city managers work efficiency. “The main task is to create conditions allowing everyone to reach their potential,” he said. 

Having told about the regional programme for the development of public spaces, the Rais of Tatarstan said that the All-Russia competition of projects for creation of comfortable environment was a great help and informed that due to it 49 projects in 23 settlements have been implemented. 

He emphasized that each implemented project was initiated taking into consideration demands and wishes of residents and underlined that this work had a great impact, noticeably changing the urban atmosphere. The territories which were previously neglected have become the points of attraction for all generations.

Rustam Minnikhanov also said that having seen a positive result of the improvement of parks and gardens a decision was made to expand this practice to courtyards and due to the Our Yard programme 5 thousand 174 courtyards were improved raising the live quality of 1.6 m residents of the republic. 

He also mention the increase of level of the assessable environment as parks and gardens have become comfortable places not only for children and adults but also for people with disabilities and have given a powerful impetus to increasing the number of people going in for sports.

“As part of the improvement work, special attention is paid to the preservation of unique natural complexes such as Blue lakes near Kazan where it became possible to reach the improvement of the ecological condition of the territory with increased attendance,” Rustam Minnikhanov said. 

He also stated that the improved regions have become more attractive for families with children, with the birth rate going up and life expectance increasing. 

Rustam Minnikhanov said that for 10 years Tatarstan has gained rich experience in improvement of public spaces. “Our republic is ready to share its experience and developments with colleagues from other regions,” he concluded.