The Vilnius District is a forested area of natural beauty, with many lakes, forest trails, and nature reserves. Vilnius District is also known for its historic towns, where buildings and monuments of different architectural styles can be found. It is a district where nature, culture, and history converge, attracting both locals and tourists. In this context, the urban vision of Vilnius District Municipality is a balanced, ecological and innovative district.

To achieve this goal, the Vilnius District Municipality plans to open up long-awaited public spaces in Nemenčinė to residents and visitors. 

The project area is located in the south-eastern part of Nemenčinė. It covers an area of approximately 27 ha on both sides of the River Neris. The area consists of several plots of land with municipal use rights: area A is for a sports building with a swimming pool, area B is for a football stadium and area C is for recreational purposes. The plots are located on both sides of the River Neris, on the banks of the river. The area is surrounded by pine forests, as is the city. The development of the banks of the Neris in the central part of the city for recreational purposes would be in demand not only by the local population but also by travelers.

The problems of the Area

The River Neris is a Natura 2000 territory – a protected area for habitat protection (https://naturalit.lt/en/home/). It is necessary to assess the data from the flood risk map. The river bank is quite steep and has not been adapted for bathing, nor is there a marina for water tourism. The forests of the Nemenčinė Regional Unit are classified as the highest (I) level of recreational intensity. On the southern shore, the foresters have established a recreation area with water reservoirs. The design of the area aims to extend the green spaces for common use, providing for the development of public buildings and recreational infrastructure.

Expectations of the Area

To create a sports, health and recreation complex to serve the whole district. A sports building with a swimming pool, a football stadium, an amphitheater, and possibly a building(s) complex with commercial premises. We would like to see this gateway to the city become the calling card of a city open to communication and to have a clear architectural form. The project should present the concept of a new attractive, intelligent sport, health and recreational center and the designed solutions should generate income in the long term, contribute to the improvement of the economic environment, increase employment and solve social problems.