Context
How to involve the public in the preparation of a strategic project that is supposed to change the future of the entire region? In Cheb, we supported a participatory process, the aim of which was to explain the purpose of the new strategic business park, collect feedback and suggestions from residents, and at the same time create space for an open discussion about the future of the city.
Cheb and the Karlovy Vary region have been facing serious challenges for a long time, such as population decline, the outflow of young people, a lack of qualified job opportunities and insufficient civic amenities. The State Investment and Development Company (SIRS) is therefore preparing a strategic business park (SPP) in cooperation with the city of Cheb. The aim is to attract investors with high added value and support the transformation of the region. However, such a large-scale project raises questions and concerns of the locals: how will it affect transport, housing or healthcare? In order for these voices to be heard, a participatory approach was chosen from the beginning.
How we proceeded
In 2025, a series of participatory meetings with the public took place. The first meeting in February was focused on gathering ideas for the development of Cheb. Citizens discussed transport, housing, security, education and job opportunities and wrote their suggestions on maps, project sheets or directly on information panels designed to collect suggestions. The second meeting in April was devoted to the presentation of the results of the feasibility study and the impact study. The initial presentation was followed by a moderated discussion, where topics such as traffic burden, the selection of investors, the availability of health care and the functioning of the joint venture between the city and SIRS were addressed. Visitors could view the panels, consult with experts or ask questions at any time.
Results of participation
Thanks to the involvement of the public, it was not only possible to increase confidence in the project, but also to obtain specific incentives for the development of the city, which complement the technical and impact studies. Cheb thus obtained not only a feasibility study and an impact study, but also a list of the needs and priorities of the residents, which became part of the preparation of the strategic park and the development plan of the city.
