Case Studies   Vilnius Old Town: Užupis – Paupys Area Case study

4. Future vision of the area

According to Vilnius city Official Plan, Užupis urban fabric and engineering infrastructure will be further renovated and extensively developed rising urban density and quality of living environment: dwelling, public spaces parks, pedestrian paths, river banks, streets, etc. Paupys area is planned to be gradually converted from the industrial (about 20% only of former industrial capacities are functioning today) to a mixed residential, cultural, entertainment and commercial functions.

Perspectives of Užupis business development may be related with entertainment industry, cultural and art activities, supporting services development. Užupis district is favourable for establishment of art galleries, designers' studies, crafts (ceramic, jewellery, etc.) workshops, specialised shops, etc.

The most active residents who formed the Angelas Club (AC) formulated their common/shared vision of the area - “Mont Parnasse”. They see future of Užupis as the “artists quarters” in Vilnius, with an exclusively liberal and open minded social character of residents and their guests, area of small art businesses and workshops’ facilities, stage of alternative artistic actions and public events giving a new artistic identity colours to the area and the whole Vilnius city. Currently leaders of the artists groups recognises that social consolidation through common economic and environment improvement actions is a priority target. It can become an extra social vitality stream to the still passive and sceptic part of the community.

The Angelas Club initiated and accomplished construction of their symbol monument - Užupis Angel. The monument is a physical expression of hopes of the new generation of residents and initiation of the revival of Užupis. It is the first publicly built monument in Vilnius city initiated by the grass roots’ initiative since recreation of Lithuanian statehood in 1991. It is also important as a pioneer declaration of self-confidence and consolidation of the ordinary city district resident community.

3.7. Key regeneration partners    5. NEIGHBOURHOOD STRATEGY