Scandicci is strategically located 10 km to the west of Florence. Due to its proximity to motorway A1, it can potentially act a Gateway to Florence. A new tramline linking Scandicci with Florence will act as a catalyst to reposition Scandicci as a key Tuscan city for the 21st century.
RRP’s approach to this masterplan has been to view Scandicci within the wider context - not as a suburb of Florence but as a ‘destination’ within the Tuscany region. In this way Scandicci’s status can be enhanced as a pivotal town linking Florence with other major hubs such as Pistoia and the Chianti area.
RRP’s scheme aims to create the appropriate infrastructure and environment to attract a diversity of economic drivers and activities. By creating educational, employment and residential opportunities, daytime population will increase, while strong linkages between the thriving industrial area and the urban center will create a ‘onestop’ business point for the surrounding area.
The masterplan creates a coherent, adaptable and integrated urban framework, a vibrant and compact multi-functional center which will provide highquality communal and recreational facilities for local residents. The new development will create new attractions (entertainment, arts and cultural events) attracting and retaining international, regional and local visitors (from Florence and the Tuscany region)
By increasing Florence University’s presence in Scandicci and regenerating the Russell Newton School complex, as well as forging new links between the fashion houses and local production facilities with the town, RRP’s scheme will offer a new residential typology for young professionals and students. These links will enhance businesses such as studio, hotels, conference and an exhibition center.
RRP’s development strategies for Scandicci are based on sustainable principles, leading the way forward in environmental control issues and the reuse of natural resources.
The masterplan will re-organise existing movement systems and improve connections within the town and the surrounding area (15 minutes by tram to Florence city center, 25 minutes by road to Florence airport), whilst also prioritising pedestrian movement within the town • Ecology Park as Gateway to Scandicci • Piazza della Resistenza as civic hub • Sports and recreation hub close to civic square • Market square as community hub • An interlinked network of new and existing public spaces each with its distinct identity.
