330,000-Square-Metre Naturapark Takes Shape
Work on Diyarbakır Metropolitan Municipality’s 330,000-square-metre Naturapark project is 55 per cent complete. Featuring two biological ponds, an accessible and inclusive design, an ecological approach that preserves existing vegetation, cycling and walking paths, and social amenities, Naturapark is being developed as one of the city’s largest green spaces.
Work on the project, led by the Department of Parks and Gardens, is continuing at the intersection of Prof. Dr Necmettin Erbakan Boulevard and Fırat Boulevard. Naturapark, which will be the city’s largest park, is expected to make a significant contribution to a culture of ecological living.
Work 55 Per Cent Complete
Construction of Naturapark began in December, and 55 per cent of the project has now been completed. Sub-base works for the walking and cycling paths have been completed, while preparations for the surface paving are under way.
Grading, alignment, setting-out and soil-spreading works are continuing in the children’s play areas, fitness areas and planted landscaping areas. Street furniture, play equipment and planting works will begin once the alignments and finished surface levels have been established.
Construction of Facilities Under Way
Construction of four WC facilities and a prayer room is continuing at Naturapark. The sub-foundations of the structures have been completed, while structural works on the upper sections are under way.
Drainage Works Under Way at Biological Ponds
Work on the two biological ponds included in the project is continuing. The reinforced-concrete retaining walls have been completed, while drainage works are under way.
Rather than conventional chlorinated pools with high energy consumption, the park will feature nature-based biological ponds designed to support the ecosystem while also achieving energy savings.
Infrastructure Works Continue
Infrastructure works at Naturapark include foundation excavation, stormwater drainage lines, electrical infrastructure and irrigation systems. Once the infrastructure works are completed, surface and landscaping works will continue across the project, which is located at a key point in the city.
Biological Ponds and Inclusive Design Stand Out
Alongside its biological ponds, Naturapark places particular emphasis on inclusive design. The park is being designed to be accessible and suitable for use not only by children but by all residents, with a focus on removing barriers to access. In this respect, the project is expected to serve as an important example of social municipalism.
Existing Vegetation to Be Preserved
Rather than completely clearing the site, as is often the case with large-scale projects, Naturapark adopts an ecological approach. Existing trees will be preserved, while the vegetation will be enriched with new plants introduced as part of the project.
Cycling and Walking Paths to Be Built
Cycling and walking paths will be created at Naturapark to promote healthy living. Fitness equipment along the walking routes will encourage residents to engage in physical activity.
The project will also include play and fitness areas, seating areas, open activity spaces, four WC facilities, a prayer room and landscaped walking routes.
