URBAN PARK ŠPIC

The Špic area in Dravograd, which is the subject of planning, is located in the immediate vicinity of the Dravograd town center, thus representing a natural spatial continuation of the urban fabric. Due to its proximity to public institutions such as the kindergarten, elementary school, and parish, the planning considered not only the sports and recreational function but also the aspect of environmental education and play with nature for the youngest users. The area is not intended solely as a sports park but as an open multipurpose space for daily recreation, relaxation, and raising awareness about the importance of nature. Brief description of the construction: Landscaping of Špic foresees the programmatic completion of existing sports and spatial structures into a holistic, connected design of a sports-recreational park. A system of gravel paths with wooden curbs has been established, connecting the park into a logical whole. Along these paths, various features are placed – resting areas with benches, play areas, and areas with exercise equipment for different age groups. Extensive planting with trees, shrubs, and perennials, with a preference for honey-producing species, ensures biodiversity, shading, and natural aesthetics of the space. The existing avenue of Japanese cherry trees is the central spine of the park. The avenue planted along Koroška cesta currently extends to the stadium. With the project, it continues all the way to the cemetery, located on the cape of the Špic area. Secondary avenues divide the central path perpendicularly and provide shade along the pedestrian path. Green coverage by tree canopies is ensured to the greatest extent possible, mitigating the effects of the urban heat island and contributing to a more pleasant microclimate. Special attention was paid to coordination with infrastructural constraints, especially due to the presence of high-voltage power lines and public utility easements, which influenced the design of the planting and the spatial organization of the park.