SEMPLICE

SEMPLICE (SimplifiEd MultiPLe usages of parkIng spaCEs) specifically focuses on reimagining parking spaces through simple, flexible and replicable solutions—co-designed with citizens—to enable hybrid, time-based or permanent alternative uses, such as bike and micromobility parking, EV charging, green, cultural, recreational, fitness and commercial activities.

Its low-cost solutions are particularly suitable for replication within and beyond the countries and cities in which they are devised and tested (Finland/Tampere, Portugal/Aveiro, Türkiye/Başakşehir, Republic of Korea/Daegu). The project has four main goals: 1. to deliver to urban authorities (including the departments for planning and designing parking slots on streets and public areas), regulators, private companies (managing parking areas for internal and external users), and local civil society organisations (including active citizens for the environment and quality of life) simple ideas, approaches, and a tested menu of flexible parking and post-parking alternatives, with templates for communication. 2. to demonstrate social enthusiasm for the new uses, attracting non-traditional stakeholders in the process; 3. to provide a Behaviour Change Design System producing new habits for post-parking spaces leading to sustainable profit and no-profit opportunities; 4. to legitimise the transformation by addressing conflicts, regulations, and mindsets.

The adoption in cities of the experimental new designs of parking spaces, leading to vibrant neighbourhoods. This draws on the lessons learned in our pilot tests, adopting Living Lab methodologies of co-design, that will frame and substantiate multiple solutions as a menu. In particular, the expected results of SEMPLICE are the following:

1. A tested, replicable participatory method for reimagining parking spaces.

2. At least 12 co-designed ideas for alternative parking-space uses.

3. At least 8 new parking geometries and signalling solutions for hybrid, static and dynamic uses.

4. Pilot implementation and testing in Aveiro, Tampere, Başakşehir, and Daegu.

5. At least 20 practical mini-handbooks, including business models and communication templates for for a viable implementation.

6. Open-access designs, data and guidance to support replication.

If adopted, those innovations can substantially increased safe parking for bikes and micromobility, lead to a reduced car use in pilot areas, and more creative use of reclaimed spaces.