08 Square du Dôme

Number of votes

1,026 (873 paper/153 online)

1. The Project in a Nutshell

Together with neighborhood residents, create a welcoming green space in front of the Bellevaux Temple.

2. The Project’s Objective

Our primary goal is social. We aim to foster connections and exchanges among residents of this multicultural neighborhood and to make our parish more open to the outside world. The project is neither religious nor denominational in nature. Gardening is a bit like cooking: everyone can pitch in, bringing their own skills and knowledge. It’s an activity for all ages that knows no boundaries. Our second goal is environmental. We aim to help save the maple tree and let greenery take over the asphalt by planting hardy, native species, which we’ll water with collected rainwater. This park will allow everyone to discover gardening techniques that respect nature. The final objective is aesthetic: our willow dome and planting beds will transform this small, austere, and deserted square into a delightful, shaded oasis, perfect for taking a break. The beauty of the plants, flowers, and insects will bring joy to everyone’s hearts.

3. The Project in Detail

Currently, the small plaza in front of the temple is paved with stone slabs and asphalt. Set back from traffic, it is sometimes used as a parking lot. With a maple tree, a trash can, and three concrete benches without backs, it doesn’t attract many people. What if we changed the scenery? What if we removed the concrete and asphalt to reveal the soil beneath? Then, neighborhood residents could come and learn how to plant and weave willow branches into a green dome. Together, we’d fill recycled SBB crates—turned into planters—with layers of soil and organic matter. We’d plant flowers, shrubs, maybe even a few vegetables… Lots of little creatures would come to live there. We’d set up new benches and a “nature” play area for the little ones. The square would become lively and welcoming. Of course, we’d have to water the plants, especially at first. This would require the help of several neighbors living near the square, but by then we’d have gotten to know each other and shared a few drinks… The older, experienced gardeners would contribute their expertise. The neighborhood kids—not all of whom are lucky enough to have a balcony—could try growing things other than bean seeds in a jar at school. It’s a lovely dream of nature, one we hope to see come true thanks to all of you who live nearby!

4. The amount requested to carry out the project

17,500 CHF

5. Neighborhood(s)

Bellevaux

6. The Association

Bellevaux Parish