Italy's former status as a key maritime power and its extensive coastline have been brought into focus at Expo Real this year, as the Italian government promotes its Lighthouses Project, a regeneration scheme to promote the reuse of lighthouses, towers and coastal buildings.
'The project commenced in 2014, involving some of the main bodies for environmental protection and regional promotion,' explained Marco Vecchione, from the state's Agenzia del Demanio which is responsible for Italy's public real estate. 'Before calling for public consultation on what should be the destiny of many of these extraordinary buildings. We tried to provide guidelines and tools for private investors to get involved. It's been very successful so far – the business community and the general public responded with great enthusiasm.'
Ideas that have reached the planning stage so far include a range of innovative and sustainable schemes capable of hosting hospitality initiatives, following the 'lighthouse accommodation' model, as well as cultural, social and sporting initiatives.
'We expect that the re-use of these treasures of the sea will not only increase their value, respecting and safeguarding the territories in which they are located, but also contribute to the promotion of Italy as an excellence in real estate and regeneration.'
The project so far has been rolled out in two phases – the first, starting in October 2015, published calls for tenders concerning 11 lighthouses and 39 bids were received. In July 2016, concessions for nine lighthouses were auctioned.
'So far, concessions have been awarded for leaseholds running from 19-50 years, to the tune of about €6 mln direct investment. We expect that some €20 mln will be generated by the schemes as a whole with nearly half a million in rent coming in,' Vecchione said.
The second phase of the project, launched in September, also included towers and coastal buildings, as well as releasing another 20 lighthouses. Offers can be submitted until December 19th via the government's public tender site.
