Tuscany region promotes Natural Commercial Centers to support local communities

The Tuscany region is advancing policies for Natural Commercial Centers (CCN) to bolster social and economic cohesion in villages, mountain areas, and isolated communities. During a meeting in Florence, regional officials emphasized that these centers act as essential social infrastructures rather than mere clusters of shops.

President Eugenio Giani stated that CCNs serve as proximity-based commerce elements designed to mitigate the negative impacts of large-scale distribution, such as the loss of community vitality. To ensure long-term success, the region aims to integrate CCN support with urban planning, transportation, and parking policies.

Tuscany is working on a new call for applications funded by European Regional Development Funds (FESR). This initiative seeks to structurally link commercial support with urban regeneration and requalification efforts under the ‘Toscana Diffusa’ law, specifically targeting disadvantaged and peripheral areas.