Multi Development has started the development of Forum Como, a project regenerating a former industrial area in the city of Como, a midsize town located in northern Italy.
Forum Como is a 42,000 m² multifunctional project combining 15,000 m² of residential, 8,500 m² of retail, a 3,000 m² hotel, 4,700 m² of services, a fitness center, and a museum surrounded by 22,000 m² of public parks and areas. Developer is Multi Development-C Italia. The master plan is from T+T Design. Opening is planned for 2010.
An amazing evening show, which was organized in close collaboration with the Como Municipality and attracted a significant number of authorities and citizens, marked the start of the demolition of the existing main building. It was a long-awaited event that put an end to over 20 years of decay for an area located in the heart of Como and yet cut off from the city.
Forum Como will create a new city district with the development of a 24-hour lifely area that will also promote the growth of the surrounding areas. The project is multi-functional and involves new housing, retail, tertiary services, and activities. Abundant green areas, public areas, and squares linked by pedestrian connections will create a place that combines Italian flavour and European standards of inner city centers.
Benno Van Veggel, Director of Multi Corporation Southern Europe, said: "Forum Como is an essential element in the regeneration of the city of Como. The new scheme has tremendous potential and will benefit the local business community and its customers, and will also be a major factor in attracting shoppers to Como from further afield. It will broaden the city's range of offerings, rejuvenate the area, create cohesion, and add new life to the city through its retail and residential content."
Mauro Mancini, Managing Director of Multi Development-C Italia, stated that Forum Como will meet the various demands of the city with an exciting scheme that will not only reconnect previously separated urban areas but also bring a new lease of life to this part of the city.
Stefano Bruni, Mayor of Como, said: "This day has been long-awaited as Ticosa became a symbol of former city administrations ineffectiveness. Today, Como citizens finally see our engagement for regeneration fulfilled."
Roberto Formigoni, President of Region Lombardy, said: "Projects such as Forum Como are a tangible sign of the truly effective collaboration between public and private parties. I'm sure the new Ticosa district will boost the economic and social life of Como."
Source: Multi Development
