Mutual Valleys

2021
Team point of view
If Niort was initially established by taking advantage of the geographical opportunities and resources of the Poitevin territory, it has gradually turned away from it under the influence of its economic development. Its urban morphology is becoming homogenised and is developing in a systemic way along radial service roads. It disregards the permeabilities necessary for the territory to cope with future climate hazards. "Mutual Valleys" proposes to make the Niortaise valleys the framework of a spontaneous resilience, supporting the regeneration of the ecological, hydrological, pedological and urban functions of the territory. The project proposes to reconsider the valleys of the Niortaise agglomeration as alternative structuring axes of development for a living city.

Jury Point of View
The team highlights the pre-eminence of hydrography and geology in the territorial project. The jury was very receptive to the team’s arguments about the effects of climate change and the need to adapt to it. The project provides a clear and relevant response at geographical and territorial scale, putting forward strong proposals reflecting the nature of the landscape and ecological structure of the valleys. The demonstration is convincing and the idea of “pooling” these spaces possesses potential for territorial innovation that is in sync with the priorities of ecological adaptation.