Palermo

Former Chimica Arenella

Permitted uses: Residential, Office, Tourism/Hospitality, Retail, General interest facilities, Industrial craftsmanship & Manufacturing, Sports facilities

PROPERTY

MAIN SPECS

87,500

Land area (m²)
261,000

Total volume of the complex (m³)
62,500

Section A (m²)
25,000

Section B (m²)

The former Chimica Arenella plant, now disused and abandoned, stands as a unique, notable example of historic industrial architecture in Palermo, poised for revitalization. With direct access to the beach and located near the Arenella marina, the area is adjacent to ancient noble villas, nestled within the cultural corridor of the historic fishing villages along Palermo’s coastline. The goal of the transformation is to initiate an urban regeneration process that prioritizes low environmental impact while enriching the area’s social and cultural landscape. This should be achieved through a well-balanced blend of partial preservation and innovative redevelopment of the existing urban fabric. Given its unique characteristics, the surrounding context, and potential connections, the site is well-suited to support a variety of functions, including tourist accommodations, sports and leisure facilities, cultural activities, artisanal workshops, residential, commercial spaces, and any other function compatible with the value of the location. As part of its real estate asset enhancement strategy, the City of Palermo collaborated with the Italian State Property Agency to enter the site into Reinventing Cities – a global competition organised by C40 Cities that invites multidisciplinary teams to transform underutilised sites into zero-carbon and resilient urban projects. The competition process, governed by the regulations published online, is structured in two phases (Phase 1 – Expression of Interest and Phase II – Final Proposals). Phase I concluded with the selection of four finalist teams. Further details are available on the official websites of the City of Palermo and the Reinventing Cities competition.

A neighborhood in Palermo where the sea meets the mountains

the area

STRENGTHS

Generous dimensions and a prime viewpoint of some of the clearest waters in the Sicilian sea.
The resilient, low-carbon, and multi-functional project can include a mix of public spaces and private uses.

OPPORTUNITIES

Palermo’s growing international appeal presents exciting opportunities in tourism and hospitality.
International students may boost education and housing development opportunities.