Chaves
Chaves (44 186 inhabitants) and Verín (14 433 inhabitants) are two towns located on the Portuguese-Spanish border, between North Portugal and the Autonomous Community of Galicia. Distant with only 15 km from each other, they both have a great historical importance. Since 2007, they have formed together the Eurocidade Chaves-Verín, a conurbation of almost 59.000 inhabitants. This common territory is not separated by the Tâmega River but forms, on the contrary, a natural corridor between the two cities and countries. Many of the local people, mostly on the Portuguese side, have emigrated to northern Europe and return visit their villages in summer (population of Chaves doubles in August). Moreover, both cities have developed the strategic agenda for the Eurocidade which was presented in July 2008 aiming, elaborated and involving external experts, researchers from University and members of civil society. Website:
Based on the recommendations elaborated by the experts who drafted the strategic agenda, the partners of the “Eurocidade Chaves-Verin” would like to assess the best governance organisation, such as an EGTC, in order to implement their common strategy, including the development of a “Free social area”. By taking part in the EGTC project, they expect to exchange with cross-border conurbations already in advance in this process of establishing a structure of governance.
Related Good Practices
SOME RELATED NETWORKS
EGTC
EGTC
The first objective of the EGTC URBACT project is to promote the development of cross-border urban development strategy.