The park by the Żerański Canal is being developed on the site of a former river port, where nature is reclaiming an area previously occupied by industry. Its waterside location, industrial character, and “wild” nature determine the unique character of this space. Simultaneously, the establishment of the park responds to the significant demand from residents of new neighborhoods built in its immediate vicinity in recent years, aiming to provide them with recreational areas by the water and closer contact with nature currently lacking. Following the example of other Warsaw parks, Żerański Park aims to become the central point of identity for this part of the district.

Industrial Architecture

Several small pavilions with gastronomic, sports, and social functions, picnic shelters, piers, and waterside infrastructure will be constructed in the park. Their aesthetics will reference the industrial character of Żerański, including the river port and prefabricated building elements still produced in the area. Remnants of these elements, abandoned on the banks years ago, now serve as habitats for animals and plants, thus will be reutilized as attractive elements of the park’s development. Park architecture will incorporate elements (technologies, materials, forms) associated with industrial construction, gradually assimilated into the park’s landscape through overgrowth by shrubs and trees. The open architecture of the pavilions will allow for their full integration with the landscape.

The Fourth Nature

Existing greenery will be preserved to the greatest extent possible. A multi-year tree renovation program will focus on the most degraded areas. As a result, the natural value of the park will gradually increase, and threats to future users will be mitigated. Simultaneously, natural grasslands and meadows will be introduced, along with enhanced waterside vegetation, creating habitats for plants and animals by rebuilding sections of the embankment. Plantings will mirror the existing vegetation and support the reclamation of Żerański’s post-industrial landscape by nature.

Activities for Everyone

Various types of playgrounds have been proposed in the park: splash pads, naturalistic woodland areas, and skill-based rope-bridge courses. There are also designated areas for anglers, observers of rowing competitions, outdoor exercise enthusiasts, beachgoers, family picnickers, as well as for dogs and their owners. The park will serve both residents of neighboring settlements and a wider audience, including cyclists, kayakers, and users of water trams.