Ville de Saint-Omer

In the Renan neighborhood of Longuenesse, just outside the center of Saint-Omer, there is a large plain surrounded by apartment buildings, a public courtyard, and the CAPSO office headquarters. Despite its size and central location, the area is mostly unused and becomes uncomfortably hot in summer due to large paved surfaces and very few trees. This pilot project aims to transform the space into a cooler, greener, and more inviting place for local residents, workers, and children. The project is part of a broader strategy to adapt the city to climate change and is supported by Interreg financing. The design process begins in 2025, with completion expected by the end of 2027.

About the pilot

This pilot uses nature-based solutions and local input to fight urban heat and improve public spaces. The project will focus on the underused courtyard of the Renan residential block and the plain between residential and commercial zones. These areas are paved, poorly shaded, and suffer from heat buildup: especially harmful for older adults and families with young children. The plan includes removing excess pavement, creating shaded walkways, adding trees, and possibly installing pergolas where trees can't grow. It also involves rethinking parking areas and improving access between different parts of the neighborhood. These changes will create a safer, cooler, and more livable environment for everyone from workers at the CAPSO office to families in the nearby housing. The project will also consider local biodiversity and stormwater management, especially after recent floods in 2023–2024.

What makes this approach unique?

This project brings together a wide range of people from the start. Residents of Le Renan, CAPSO employees, and people from the surrounding neighborhoods will help design the new space. Their ideas will shape the project so that it reflects real needs. Whether it's a safe path for children to play, a shaded lunch spot for workers, or better walking routes for older adults. What makes it even more special is that the project looks at the whole area from its history and past layout to its current social and environmental challenges. It also serves as a model for how European cooperation can lead to better local living conditions, with Interreg support showing what cross-border teamwork can achieve

Expected results

By 2027, the Renan courtyard and the surrounding plain will be greener, cooler, and more welcoming. Children will have safe and shaded spaces to play. Older residents and people without cars will have better walking routes and shaded spots to rest. Workers at CAPSO will enjoy outdoor breaks in comfort. These improvements will not only make everyday life better but also help nature return to the area. Over time, this project will show how neglected urban spaces - especially in priority neighborhoods - can be turned into places of pride and comfort for everyone.

Interested or inspired?

Would you like to make your city’s public spaces cooler, greener, and more welcoming too? Get in touch!