Digital Geospatial Twinning for Revaluation of a Waterfront Urban Park Design (Case Study: Burgas City, Bulgaria)

Stelian Dimitrov, Bilyana Borisova, Antoaneta Ivanova, Martin Iliev, Lidiya Semerdzhieva (), Maya Ruseva and Zoya Stoyanova
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Stelian Dimitrov: Geospatial Systems and Technologies Department, Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski, 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
Bilyana Borisova: Landscape Ecology and Environmental Protection Department, Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski, 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
Antoaneta Ivanova: Geospatial Systems and Technologies Department, Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski, 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
Martin Iliev: Geospatial Systems and Technologies Department, Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski, 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
Lidiya Semerdzhieva: Geospatial Systems and Technologies Department, Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski, 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria
Maya Ruseva: “Strategic Development” Directorate, 26 Alexandrovska Str., 8000 Burgas, Bulgaria
Zoya Stoyanova: “Strategic Planning, Digitalization and Sustainable Urban Development” Department, 26 Alexandrovska Str., 8000 Burgas, Bulgaria

Land, 2025, vol. 14, issue 8, 1-28

Abstract: Digital twins play a crucial role in linking data with practical solutions. They convert raw measurements into actionable insights, enabling spatial planning that addresses environmental challenges and meets the needs of local communities. This paper presents the development of a digital geospatial twin for a residential district in Burgas, the largest port city on Bulgaria’s southern Black Sea coast. The aim is to provide up-to-date geospatial data quickly and efficiently, and to merge available data into a single, accurate model. This model is used to test three scenarios for revitalizing coastal functions and improving a waterfront urban park in collaboration with stakeholders. The methodology combines aerial photogrammetry, ground-based mobile laser scanning (MLS), and airborne laser scanning (ALS), allowing for robust 3D modeling and terrain reconstruction across different land cover conditions. The current topography, areas at risk from geological hazards, and the vegetation structure with detailed attribute data for each tree are analyzed. These data are used to evaluate the strengths and limitations of the site concerning the desired functionality of the waterfront, considering urban priorities, community needs, and the necessity of addressing contemporary climate challenges. The carbon storage potential under various development scenarios is assessed. Through effective visualization and communication with residents and professional stakeholders, collaborative development processes have been facilitated through a series of workshops focused on coastal transformation. The results aim to support the design of climate-neutral urban solutions that mitigate natural risks without compromising the area’s essential functions, such as residential living and recreation.

Keywords: digital twin; spatial analysis; urban park; natural hazards; carbon sequestration; urban planning; stakeholders; Black Sea coast; geodesign (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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