The municipal council of Monaco has unanimously approved an ambitious land reclamation project aimed at addressing housing shortages and adding green spaces in the world’s most densely populated country. The Anse du Portier project will extend Monaco’s territory into the Mediterranean, featuring a landscaped park, shops, offices, and much-needed residential areas.
Sustainable Urban Design
Monaco, home to 36,000 residents within just two square kilometers, is set to expand its territory by approximately 3% through this project. The government, under Prince Albert II, initiated the luxury development to alleviate overcrowding and improve living conditions. The bids for the project were required to meet high environmental standards, emphasizing sustainable urban design.
The winning bid highlights several green areas surrounding the urban development. The project will create around 60,000 square meters of land, including housing for nearly 700 residents and commercial spaces. Additionally, a small port will be constructed. Vehicles will have access to the new area, but priority will be given to pedestrian and cyclist routes.
Deputy Mayor André Campana emphasized the project’s focus on public spaces and pedestrian-friendly designs:
“This new district takes into account the characteristics of an urban area, namely the continuity of pedestrian access, quality of public spaces, facades… A feature of this space is notably the landscaped public park and the hill, around which the project is based, and the various pedestrian routes which compose it, such as along the seafront. The outdoor areas will also include public spaces and public facilities including parking and a 5,000 m² extension to the Grimaldi Forum.”
Enhancing Monaco’s Urban Landscape
This project is a continuation of Monaco’s efforts to expand its limited territory. In 2008, plans for a larger reclamation project were canceled due to the global financial crisis. However, the current project is a significant step forward in addressing the Principality’s spatial challenges and improving the quality of life of its inhabitants.
The approval of the Anse du Portier project marks an important milestone for Monaco. By prioritizing sustainable design and green spaces, this project will not only provide much-needed housing, but will also enhance the urban landscape of the world’s most densely populated country.