The park surrounding the Marselisborg Rehabilitation Center is the first of its kind to combine rehabilitation activities and cloudburst protection.
Managing heavy rainfall from cloudbursts is still a challenge for many cities around the world. In Aarhus, SPARK is part of the answer to this ever-increasing risk. The project is a park surrounding Marselisborg Rehabilitation Center with multiple functions as a place for recreation, nature, rehabilitation and climate adaptation. SPARK is part of a wider urban development plan to repurpose a 100-year-old hospital into a new, innovative rehabilitation center, combining climate adaptation and outdoor activities for patients.
3,427
M3 OF WATER IS EXPECTED TO BE RETAINED IN THE PARK
Part of the Marselisborg Rehabilitation Center is located on a hill top, meaning that the low lying areas surrounding it are more prone to flooding. The climate adapted area is comprised of a built area of approx. 25,700 m2 and a green area of 42,050 m2 which can handle 892 m3 water during a 1⁄2 year rain event, in which 14,2 mm will fall in 10 minutes. During a 1-in-100 year rain event, SPARK can handle 3,427 m3 water. The result of SPARK will be the weather proofing of a 4,500 m2 basement, local job creation, and, for the benefit of patients, as the center will o er an increased number of rehabilitation courses per year.
SPARK's strategy to involve citizens, professionals, education institutions and patient associations has resulted in 11 internships and a range of educational workshops.
How the Global Goals are addressed
Good Health and Well-Being
The SPARK project has the capacity to facilitate a minimum of 2,500 outdoor rehabilitation courses every year, and around 15,000 citizens have access to this unique recreational space.
Sustainable Cities and Communities
In 2017, 900 people from local institutions participated in SPARK activities. SPARK makes a strong case for integrating a social inclusion and rehabilitation aspect when developing adaptation projects.
Climate Action
Climate adaptation helps to protect both hospitals and surrounding buildings against floods whilst relieving pressure on the local drainage system.
Aarhus Municipality
Aarhus Municipality is Denmark's second largest municipality with more than 335,000 inhabitants.
Global Goals addressed