Mykolaiv Health Route Pilot Project Output 1 – Site Analysis and Surveys

Published in September 2026, the document lays the groundwork for designing the Mykolaiv Health Route, selected among the Mykolaiv Masterplan’s pilot projects as a 5-kilometre waterfront corridor conceived to reconnect the city with its rivers, landscape and communities. The Masterplan was funded by BMZ, supported by GIZ, implemented by UNECE, and prepared by an international interdisciplinary team led by One Works Foundation in close partnership with the Mykolaiv City Council.

The study, with LAND Italia contributing landscape expertise, offers an in-depth investigation of the current site conditions, its existing characteristics and current identity, bringing together spatial analysis, ecological assessment, mobility, international benchmarks and community perspectives. Technical knowledge is combined with participatory design centered on local voices, including an online survey of 467 residents and a workshop with local students, ensuring that the future design grows from the characteristics and aspirations of Mykolaiv itself.

At the heart of the project is the ambition to transform the waterfront into a continuous green-blue corridor: strengthening ecological connections, improving access to Nature, supporting walking and cycling, and creating new spaces for recreation, social interaction and wellbeing. The analysis also identifies opportunities to work with existing landscapes and natural systems, from vegetation and slopes to water management and biodiversity.

From understanding the existing landscape to shaping its future, the Health Route demonstrates how Nature, public space and community can become foundations for a more resilient and connected city.