Tåstrup Roskilde DK

Tåstrup, near Roskilde
An example of using discussions with inhabitants, supported by major injections of money from the housing company and the municipality, in an attempt to change the design of the external areas of a high density housing estate and make the place more liveable.

Probably one of the worst large housing developments in Denmark, these large blocks of flats were renovated 10 years ago, but still have many problems. They are now due for a further renovation and in depth discussions are underway with the local inhabitants. External funds will be necessary, since many of the problems are structural and not just to do with greenspace, although in the next phase improving greenspace is seen as a way of making this site a less hostile place in which to live. A grey, bleak place at the best of times, an attempt has been made to improve the look of the estate by painting the blocks different colours, yellow and pink, and adding slanted roofs. However, in reality this does little to improve the estate as a residential environment.

At intervals through the estate the underground car parking areas (see above) have been replaced by a variety of greenspace, designed by the tenants in the adjacent blocks. Some have chosen hard surfaces and a children's play area and others have opted for garden features.

There are patio gardens outside some 1st floor flats. A community centre was also built which has proved to be popular.

The estate remains an area of relative poverty, with a high number of immigrants. The rate of turnover of tenants is still high, but many of the local people still want to stay there. It will be interesting to see if the further improvements to the greenspace of this site now being considered by the residents help to turn it round so that it becomes a site to which people want to move.

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Latest update : 20 Sept 2001