Aler di Mantova and Brescia acquire historic area for urban regeneration
The area of the former forensic psychiatric hospital has been purchased by Aler di Mantova and Brescia. To secure it, the Lombard residential construction company submitted a sealed bid to the management of ‘Carlo Poma’ for 7 billion 123 million lire. As the sole competitor, they faced no difficulties in winning the bid.
Now, instead of the old pavilions, housing, shops, and offices will be built. The project will give a new face to the historic center. The opening of the construction site is scheduled for next year.
Presentation of the operation and reactions
The operation was presented yesterday at the offices on viale Risorgimento in Mantova, with representatives from Aler virgiliana including President Stefania Concordati and Director Renzo Baruffaldi; and from Aler di Brescia including President Luigi Cavalieri, Vice President Luciano Rubessa, and Director Angelo Bettoni.
Concordati expressed her immediate satisfaction with the successful outcome of the bid. «The acquisition of a 12,300 square meter area (7,000 of which are covered) in the central via Ordanino,» she specified, «will enable us to proceed with significant urban regeneration in the heart of Castiglione. This aligns with the objectives of an organization like ours, which must not only respond to the rising housing demand but also ensure quality interventions.
Specifically, Aler becomes the owner of a public asset that it intends to return to the community. We build to sell; therefore, this responsibility will not divert resources from traditional activities.»
The Mantovan president, after emphasizing that the regeneration will be conducted through open and constructive dialogue with the Municipality, stated that «Aler does not operate according to speculative logic but within a transparent framework, aiming to enhance the ‘heart’ of Castiglione and considering the shift in housing demand, which now also, for safety reasons, favors the city center».
Authorities’ stance and future prospects
The President of Aler di Brescia, Luigi Cavalieri, well-acquainted with Castiglione (having also served as councilor), highlighted that the capital of Alto Mantovano boasts prestigious buildings and recalled that current development is held back by two large complexes: the former Opg and the former Cavalieri pasta factory. Acquiring the first will reconnect the urban fabric.
«Moreover, Aler,» he added, «has considerable experience in the development of quality housing. This initiative is one that should reassure everyone, as public institutions are under closer scrutiny than private ones. I hope to have a prompt meeting with the Municipality to clarify all details. But even now, it is certain that no one intends to dominate or seize control of the city.»
Regarding the planning process, there are plans to entrust it to major technical studios.
