Silesian cities initiate urban greening projects to replace concrete

Cities in the Silesian region of Poland are initiating projects to replace concrete and paving stones with greenery to combat urban heat and improve public spaces.

In Katowice, works are scheduled to begin between late August and early September 2026 in the Śródmieście and Ligota districts. Following resident requests, paving stones will be removed in the area of Barbara Flieger Street and Braci Wolnych Street to make room for vegetation. In Ligota, approximately 50 square meters will be de-paved around an existing pedunculate oak to improve its vitality and support potential legal protection as a natural monument.

In Ruda Śląska, authorities plan to transform Jan Paweł II Square in the Nowy Bytom district. The project aims to reverse a 2010 renovation that was criticized for excessive concrete use. Mayor Michał Pierończyk announced that over 1,300 square meters of concrete will be replaced with lawns, flower beds, and permeable surfaces to mitigate urban heat islands. The renovation is supported by 5.5 million PLN from the European Funds for Silesia 2021-2027 program.