Global PalestineConnected Gaza

A Spatial Vision forthe Gaza Governorates

A Palestinian Private Sector Initiative

Supported by:Consolidated Contractors Company

Palestine Investment FundBank of Palestine

Paltel Group FoundationPalestine Real Estate Investment Company

In cooperation with:The Portland Trust

April 2016

ABOUT US

Global Palestine, Connected Gaza Vision is supported by:

• Consolidated Contractors Company • Palestine Investment Fund• Bank of Palestine• Paltel Group Foundation• Palestine Real Estate Investment Company

AECOM, a world-leading spatial and urban planning firm will lead the technical work in conjunction with the Portland Trust.

IMAGINE GAZA

Global Palestine, Connected Gaza defines productive industrial and employment areas, key infrastructure developments, attractive environments and desirable places to live.

Gateway Gaza

• This would include an offshore port (Gaza Port Precinct), a regional airport, and a new intermodal transport interchange (Gaza Gateway) to the northeast.

Core Gaza

• The transformation of this area could include waterfront regeneration, urban intensification, conservation of the Old City, new transport links, as well as new business districts and industrial areas.

Wadi Gaza

• Wadi Gaza could be restored to its former glory, creating a recreational asset for all to enjoy, anchoring attractive new urban neighborhoods and playing a key role in water management.

Beach Gaza

• The southern part of Gaza could be a key area for coastal tourism, combined with environmental restoration and protection. This area could serve as Gaza’s gateway to Egypt.

Global Palestine, Connected GazaTake a look at our website for more information!

WHY NOW?

The challenges Gaza is facing are astute and urgent.

In the absence of meaningful progress towards greater openness, conditions in Gaza will inevitably continue to deteriorate, most likely leading to a profound humanitarian crisis and resulting in renewed conflict.

The major investments required now will influence the shape of Gaza for generations to come.

Damage and debris in Gaza, 2015

SPATIAL VISION

The Spatial Vision represents both the long term plan for the future of the Gaza governorates and also a coordinated series of Catalytic Projects.

Urban Development

Contain urban development within strategically identified and clearly defined areas - maximizing accessibility to facilities, services and employment, while preserving Gaza’s precious environmental and agricultural land.

Transportation

Promote strategic connectivity between Gaza, the West Bank and the regional hinterland. Within Gaza, provide a transport network that is coordinated with and supports urban growth and sustainable development.

Energy and Water

Establish a reliable and sustainable supply of energy and water as a crucial prerequisite for all other proposals in the Spatial Vision.

Environment and Open Space

Protect, restore and enhance key natural systems in Gaza.

GAZA FACTS

Total population of 1.8 million, growing at 3.4 % annually.

Housing supply less than 60% of total needs, with a deficit of more than 140,000 units.

Power supply less than 45% of estimated demand.

Unemployment over 40%, youth unemployment over 60%.

GDP per capital 30% lower than in mid 1990s.

Coastal aquifer on the verge of collapse, with extraction at nearly four times the sustainable rate.

Demographic imbalance, with 73% of population under the age of 30.

Instability, recurrent conflict, internal and external constraints have been exacerbated by a de facto blockade by the Government of Israel since 2007.

The partial closing of the Rafah crossing and the war that took place in summer 2014 had a devastating effect on Gaza.

CATALYTIC PROJECTS

• There are over 70 Catalytic Projects which are intended to help deliver the Spatial Vision.

• These are deliverable on a range of different timescales.

• Many critical projects beginning now and focus on the medium term (2030).

• The proposed projects range from large-scale infrastructure developments to grassroots, community-driven undertakings.

Mediterranean Sea

Palestine (West Bank)

Dead Sea

Egypt

Jordan

Syria

Figure 1.01 Palestine in context

Israel

Palestine (Gaza)

N M 100km0 20 40

Lebanon

Gulf of Aqaba

Saudi Arabia

Looking towards Gaza City fishing harbour, Instagram image courtesy of Mosab Abu Khater (@mosababukhater1)