At the observation deck
On 16 October, fourth-year students majoring in "Transport Processes Technology" visited the Lakhta Center complex. The excursion took place as part of the preparations for the VI International Competition of Student Projects on the Promotion of World Cultural Heritage Sites. The students were accompanied by Anton Ignatov, PhD of Engineering Sciences, an Associate Professor at the Department of Transport Systems and Road and Bridge Construction.
Participants are to develop a project for the category "Movement: transport and pedestrian infrastructure – a vision for a continuous route connecting the urban environment." The competition requirements call for a concept that integrates pedestrian, water, cycling, and other routes, linking the high-rise cluster with existing urban points of interest, cultural heritage sites, and park areas within the competition space. Particular attention should be paid to how these routes connect to the waterfronts.
During the tour, the students learned about the history of the complex’s construction, plans for the development of the "Lakhta Center 2" and "Lakhta Center 3" skyscrapers, and the prospects for extending the metro line and building new stations. From the complex’s observation deck, the participants were able to assess the layout of nearby landmarks and points of interest, which will prove useful as they develop transport and pedestrian connections.
Following the tour, the students asked the organizers clarifying questions and outlined areas for future work. Potential project solutions include the creation of pedestrian and cycling routes, as well as the construction of a footbridge leading toward the 300th Anniversary of St Petersburg Park.
Work on the project is aimed at finding modern urban planning solutions that will unlock the potential of the Lakhta Center space.