On May 31- June 1, 2018, the 5th All-Russian Conference “Development of Urban Agglomerations: Innovations and Infrastructure” was held in Novosibirsk. The representatives of federal-, regional and municipal authorities, specialized educational institutions, experts from economic organizations, architectural firms and construction companies were invited to participate. During two days of the Conference more than 400 people took part in the event. The Conference was organized by the Ministry of Construction of Novosibirsk Region.
A. Puzanov, IUE Director General, made a presentation entitled “Managing the Development of Agglomerations: Key Areas and a System of Assessment”.
A. Puzanov noted that an agglomeration helps enhance the quality of life of the people who live within its boundaries. He emphasized that an agglomeration cannot be ‘artificially’ created. Rather, it is possible only to strengthen the links and encourage the development of several settlements.
He also drew attention that an agglomeration is a matter of interest both for major investors and for small businesses. In his view, integration of markets occurs within the boundaries of an agglomeration, for instance, residential construction markets. “One may come up with new projects which take into account the demand not only on the part of the population in a small settlement but also on the part of the population living in all settlements within an agglomeration. Due to a drastic surge in migration mobility, a single information space is being created. And we should also seek to ensure a single procurement space within an agglomeration. That is, when a municipal government issues a procurement notice, it would be logical for small businesses from neighboring municipal entities to take part in the procurement procedures. Despite current legislative restrictions we should move on in that direction. This should serve to the benefit of business community, including small businesses,” considers A. Puzanov, IUE Director General.
All-Russian Conference “Development of Russia’s Urban Agglomerations” has been held in Novosibirsk from 2014. Its participants has agreed that the event provided one of the key venues for discussion of agglomeration processes and for finding the ways for addressing the current challenges.
