Matera's Sassi: call for a public debate on sub‑concession renewals

Councilor Domenico Bennardi has urged the launch of a public consultation prior to renewing sub‑concessions in the Sassi di Matera. The proposal aims to turn an administrative decision into a participatory process that balances heritage conservation, residents' quality of life and sustainable tourism development.

Key points of the proposal

• Renewal length: renewals could extend up to thirty years, so strategic assessments are necessary.
• Protecting residents: policies should prioritize livability in historic districts and comply with special protection rules for the area.
• Tourism balance: avoid tourism monoculture by supporting craftsmanship, cultural initiatives and local training.
• Transparency and merit: renewals should not be automatic but based on clear, fair criteria and performance evaluations.

Practical measures suggested

• Organize public consultations with residents, associations, universities and researchers to agree on criteria.
• Carry out an updated inventory of sub‑concessions to assess the legal and economic condition of properties.
• Introduce public tender procedures for premises undergoing change of use or in cases of proven arrears.
• Promote repopulation policies and incentives for young people and sustainable local businesses.

Why this matters

The Sassi di Matera, the first UNESCO site in Southern Italy, need governance that reconciles heritage protection with residents' well‑being. Transparent, participatory decisions support sustainable development, social cohesion and the long‑term preservation of the site's cultural value.

Location

Place: Sassi di Matera, 75100 Matera (MT), Italy
Coordinates: 40.6648626, 16.6107106