An inhabited riverside

Zorrotzaurre maintains the tradition of Bilbao as a city for the walker and its long riverbank represents its principal asset. The marked differences between the character of the riverbank and that of the canal bank, double that asset and create an opportunity to take two different approaches to the occupation of the two banks.

On the river side, a series of historic buildings and small scale streets suggest a river-side walk. Its dense fabric creates a dramatic contrast to the strong curve of the river and the steep slopes of the far bank.

The more gentle embrace of the canal suggests a more built-up and differentiated water-side, with cuts, ponds, moorings and steps down to the water that in combination support a variety of activities from the contemplative to the most dynamic, ensuring a future variety of water sports.

It is easy to imagine rowing clubs and sailing and windsurf schools together with small leisure boats tied up at the marina to give life back to the river as the port did years ago.

The sports centre will also be a central part of the leisure and sports environment for the whole area. It will be located in the central district on the edge of the canal.

In Zorrotzaurre, there is a unique opportunity to integrate urban life with the rich estuary environment that for so long has been part of the city’s life.