Sustainable Redevelopment – from Coal Mine to Self-Sufficient Energy Transformation Center

The signing of the Paris Agreement in 2015 marked a significant milestone in global climate policy. The international community committed to limiting the global average temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels [1]. In response to this commitment, the Powering Past Coal Alliance (PPCA) was launched at the 2017 UN Climate Change Conference in Bonn [2]. The PPCA aims to phase out the full use of coal in OECD countries by 2030 [17]. The need for a transition away from fossil fuels was further emphasised in the “Silesian Declaration on Solidarity and Just Transition”. The Declaration highlights the social and economic dimensions of this transition [3,49].

The European Union was the first to set out a longterm strategy for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and has been taking steps towards the revision of its climate change plans [9,11,12]. Initially, the EU pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the economy by at least 40% from 1990 levels by 2030 and to increase the share of energy from renewable sources in total EU energy consumption to at least 27% [48]. In 2019, the target to reduce emissions was raised to 55% and the intention to become carbon neutral by 2050 was announced [7]. Due to the strategic importance of hard coal in the country's energy policy, Poland was the only country to refuse to sign the commitment at that time [9,11,12].

Furthermore, the European Green Deal identifies the need for a comprehensive transition where all relevant sectors, including environment, energy, transport, industry, agriculture and sustainable finance, work together to achieve the main climate target [7,9]. For Member States, this means a slow transition away from coal-fired power generation and a reduction in the need for fossil fuels.

Poland had to revise its energy security strategy to meet international and EU standards. In 2018. The “Programme for the Coal Mining Sector in Poland”was adopted by the Council of Ministers. Its main objective was a fair transformation of the hard coal mining sector, assuming a gradual liquidation of thermal coal mining based on public support mechanisms [44]. Another important step was the adoption of the draft Energy Policy of Poland up to 2040 [43], which takes into account the need to conduct this process in a fair and solidary way, in line with the assumptions of the European Green Deal and COVID-19. This document sets out new directions for the country’s energy transition based on three key elements: sustainable transformation, building a zero-emissions energy system and improving air quality, including:

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  a 7% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in sectors not covered by the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), compared to 2005 levels,

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  a 21-23% share of renewable energies (RES) in gross final energy consumption

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  increasing energy efficiency by 23% compared to PRIMES2007 projections

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  and reducing the share of coal used to generate electricity to at least 56% [43].

The introduction of new regulatory frameworks necessitates a comprehensive reassessment of strategies for the redevelopment of post-mining areas, as their reutilization may serve as a critical catalyst for the transformation of local economies. Such processes could mitigate the adverse socio-economic impacts associated with mine closures by fostering new forms of community embeddedness within the region [31]. Within this context, the advancement and deployment of cutting-edge carbon dioxide emission reduction technologies within the European Union appear more advantageous than the relocation of industrial activities to developing countries [45]. Concurrently, although the decentralization of energy systems entails both novel opportunities and opportunity costs, former coal regions are emerging as primary beneficiaries of these transitions. In these areas, local prosumer communities are increasingly functioning as polycentric actors responsible for the management of shared energy resources [47].

In the pursuit of innovative applications for post-mining territories, Menendez et al. [38] investigated the potential for repurposing decommissioned mines into sites for underground pumped hydro energy storage, compressed air energy storage plants, and geothermal installations, presenting a case study of the integration of these three technologies within a single location. Similarly, Madlener and Specht [36] examined the feasibility of converting abandoned underground coal mines in Germany into underground pumped-storage power plants. Their analysis underscores that, under appropriate conditions, such projects can achieve both technical and economic viability.

Additionally, other researchers have highlighted mining waste as a potential secondary source of raw materials, which could partially compensate for the limited availability of critical metals. They also emphasize the need for further research into the valorization of flotation tailings [32] and the utilization of methane emissions as an additional energy source [6,8,33]. Parallel investigations have been undertaken to develop methodologies for selecting optimal business models based on renewable energy and circular economy technologies in decommissioned coal mines. These studies aim to support the growth of the renewable energy sector, promote sustainable local economic development, and maximize the creation of green, high-quality jobs [34].

In Poland, extensive efforts are also underway to implement the guidelines outlined in strategic policy documents. These activities particularly focus on research initiatives and the deployment of projects enabling the extraction of energy from renewable sources. Key examples include the recovery and storage of thermal energy from mine waters [37, 35, 45, 50], as well as the construction of wind and solar farms on former mining sites [55].

An example that best illustrates the challenges associated with adapting post-mining areas to new functions, within the context of climate policy changes and the development of renewable energy, is the redevelopment process of the “Rozbark”Coal Mine in Bytom. Analyzing this case provides deeper insights into both the difficulties encountered during the adaptation of post-mining areas and the critical conditions that influence the effectiveness of such redevelopment processes. A comprehensive analysis of the transformation process — covering the stages from the mine’s operation and closure, through planning and implementation, to the current utilization of the post-mining site — enables an assessment of the effectiveness of undertaken actions and the identification of key factors contributing to the successful transformation of postindustrial areas. It also reflects the challenges faced during the adaptation of post-mining sites, including issues related to securing financing, navigating legal and planning regulations, and responding to changing trends and evolving assessments of the potential of such areas. Consequently, this example serves as a valuable reference for other regions facing similar challenges, emphasizing the need for integrated, multidisciplinary approaches to the post-mining transition.

The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of the strategic planning and transformation process of the post-industrial area of the CoalMine “Rozbark”in Bytom, Poland. The research encompasses the following aspects:

• an examination of the transformation process, encompassing stages from mine operation and closure, through planning and implementation, to the current land use of the post-mining site.

• an evaluation of the practical implementation of spatial policies and architectural projects in the revitalisation of post-mining areas.

• an identification of factors influencing the successful transformation of post-industrial areas.

In order to achieve these objectives, a multi-method research strategy was adopted, combining archival analysis, spatial data processing, site investigations, and urban planning documentation review. The study was based on:

• 1)

  Archival research

  Archival materials were collected primarily from the Archive of Surveying and Geological Documentation at the Higher Mining Office in Katowice. The focus was on:

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  general and detailed mine closure plans, including their updates, used to reconstruct the procedural timeline and spatial interventions.

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  historical land use maps from archival materials documentation,

• 2)

  Geodetic and cartographic data collection

  Data from the municipal geodetic and cartographic resources of the city of Bytom were gathered. This encompassed digital cadastral maps and topographical maps, which facilitated the precise spatial identification and delimitation of the Rozbark mining area.

• 3)

  Identification and delimitation of the post-mining site

  Utilising the integration of archival cartography, geodetic resources and contemporary spatial datasets, the research delineated the total extent of the former mining infrastructure and associated land parcels.

• 4)

  The collection and analysis urban and architectural projects

  A component of the methodology entailed an indepth examination of urban and architectural documentation. In this context, the examination encompassed a variety of documents, including competition submissions, project proposals from design studios and construction companies. The analysis placed particular emphasis on the extent to which the designs were realised.

• 5)

  Field investigations (2020–2024)

  The site inspection was conducted in two phases over the period from October 2020 to October 2024. The objective of the site inspection was to observe and document the extant built environment, open spaces, and structural remains.

  The site inspection was conducted with the following objectives in mind:

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  to create a photographic inventory of the current state of land use and infrastructure.

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  to assess the technical conditions and functionality of post-mining structures.

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  to assess the degree of implementation of projects.

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  Cartographic and quantitative spatial analysis

  The cartographic analysis of land use classification was based on collected archival, publicly available spatial information systems and geodetic data, as well as field investigation data. The analysis was conducted in accordance with the author’s prior typology of post-mining land use [13,16].

• 7)

  Comparative analysis of field observations and research findings

  Results obtained during site inspections were compared with archival, cartographic, and planning data to verify the consistency between planned redevelopment strategies and actual land use outcomes. This allowed identification of spatial and functional discrepancies, assessment of implementation success, and recognition of unforeseen dynamics in land transformation.

• 8)

  Planning framework analysis

  The legal and spatial planning framework was analysed based on local planning documents, such as the Study of Conditions and Directions of Spatial Development of the City of Bytom and valid Local Spatial Development Plans (LSDP). The objective of this study was to evaluate the alignment of redevelopment initiatives with formal planning directives and to ascertain the existence of any planning constraints or facilitations within the transformative process.

The history of the Coal Mine “Rozbark”(originally the “Hainitz”mine) dates back to 1856, when the “Heinitz”mining field was granted. The construction of the mine began only after Otto Friedlander took over the property, and in 1878, coal production started, with the first shafts, Stalmach and Bończyk, being sunk. [29]. In 1890, the mine was acquired by the heirs of Georg von Giesches, who continued investing in the development of new mining levels and the exploitation of new areas (Hope and Heinitz Extension). During this period, important infrastructure was built, including a guildhall, powerhouse, smithy, firehouse, two administrative buildings, and a management building, designed by Emil and Georg Zilmann [29,56]. After the Second World War, the name of the mine was changed to “Rozbark”, after the district in which it was located.

For the residents of Bytom, the Coal Mine “Rozbark”was not only an industrial workplace but also a central element of social life. It was the economic and cultural foundation of the city. It played a key role in the city’s development, especially for the Rozbark district, whose identity, spatial layout and social structure were strongly linked to the mine’s functioning. Workers’ settlements, public buildings, shops, schools and places of worship and social life were built around the mine. The daily life of the district’s inhabitants was organised around the rhythm of the mine’s work. Interpersonal relationships were shaped by shared work and family experiences of mining. There were also many social, cultural and political events that built a sense of community and shaped local identity.

The decommissioning of Coal Mine “Rozbark” began in 1999 and took place in two stages. The first stage involved the restructuring of the entire company, which included the merger of part of the mine with the liquidated Coal Mine “Centrum-Szombierki”and the establishment of an independent mine called “Bytom II”. In 2004, with the decision to fully close Mine “Bytom II”, the following actions were initiated: the closure and securing of selected underground workings and shafts, the prevention of hazards associated with the decommissioning process, the removal of surface facilities, the repair of mining damage, and land reclamation [42].

Figure 1.

Archival photographic documentation of the Coal Mine “Rozbark”(1927). Source: https://polska-org.pl/10026860,foto.html?idEntity=7794217 (access date 2.10.2022)

Figure 2.

Development plan for Coal Mine “Rozbark” area on the Chorzowska Street. Source: Author study on the basis of data from the Archives of the State Mining Authority in Katowice

At the time of its decommissioning, the Bytom II Mine included the area of the Coal Mine “Rozbark”(approximately 14.85 ha) and the “Barbara” Shaft (approximately 6.9 ha). The main site of the former mine was located in the central part of the city of Bytom, along Chorzowska Street. It was surrounded by residential and commercial buildings to the east, and factories, wholesalers, and warehouses to the south. To the west of the mine was the Coal Mine “Szombierki” and the historic settlement of Wzgórze Małgorzatki. The northern boundary of the site was marked by a railway siding adjacent to the Bytom – Katowice railway line, which simultaneously separated the mine from the historic areas of the city center [42].

Most of the mine’s buildings were concentrated on the eastern side of the plant. These included the shafthead and hoist machinery buildings for the “Bończyk” and “Stalmach” pits, the boiler house, the smithy, the dispatch hall a complex of bath and lamphouse buildings, the 6kV electrical substation, and facilities for treatment, storage, and workshops. The total built-up area in this part of the mine was approximately 20400 m².

In the western part of the mine, there were coal storage yards and settling ponds (approximately 2.37 ha). Outside the fenced area of the plant, there were administrative and office buildings, the director’s villa, the telephone exchange, and the handling and weighbridge buildings.

The closure of the Coal Mine “Rozbark” was a turning point, triggering strong emotions and fears for the future of the town among former workers and the wider community. The decision to close the mine brought with it many social problems, including an increase in unemployment, a deterioration in the living conditions of former workers and their families, and a reduction in the income of the local community. As a result, the closure of the mine not only created an economic crisis, but also deep uncertainty about the future fate of the site and the possibilities for its future development.

Redeveloping Coal Mine “Rozbark” represents a major challenge for the local authorities. Not only in terms of economic, social, spatial and environmental issues, but also in terms of cultural and identity issues. To preserve part of the original postindustrial heritage on 8 July 2007 the complex of mining buildings of the former Coal Mine “Rozbark” at Chorzowska Street was entered into the National Register of Monuments and Sites (registration number – A/213/07). It consisted of a the dispatch hall (1911), a boiler house (1915), a machine room building of the “Bończyk” shaft (1907) and a retaining wall (1886) [10]. These objects have been left without proper protection and conservation. Due to the deterioration of their technical condition, the buildings of the smithy and the locksmith’s shop were demolished in 2012.

By December 2024, 19.7% of the land of the decommissioned of Coal Mine “Rozbark” located along Chorzowska Street had been redeveloped. The predominant function of the area consists of service facilities (educational, cultural, sports, and recreational), which, together with transportation and investment areas, cover 2.9 hectares of this site (Fig. 8).

Figure 8.

Land use of the site of the decommissioned Coal Mine “Rozbark” in December 2024. Source: Author’s study

Despite the systematic renovation of the mining buildings has been ongoing for over 21 years, approximately 32,8% of the area remains undeveloped. The opportunity to transform them is further projects responding to the contemporary needs of the city and its inhabitants. Nowadays, intensive construction work is underway on the post-mining areas as part of the implementation of the Green Quarter of KWK “Rozbark” (4.9 hectares). This project responds to contemporary challenges, such as the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change. Through the use of modern technologies and the development of energy infrastructure, including photovoltaic panels and biogas installations, the former mining site is not only being revitalized but also becoming a symbol of energy transformation in the region.

The project is based on the principles of sustainable urban development, supporting a balance between the environment, economy, and society. By restoring the use of degraded areas, the investment mitigates the negative impact of human activity on the environment while simultaneously generating new jobs and creating educational and social spaces. Moreover, integrating energy infrastructure with educational and recreational areas enables Bytom’s residents to better understand the benefits of the green transition, fostering ecological awareness and local engagement.

Transforming the post-mining site into a renewable energy hub also reflects a commitment to the region’s future – laying the foundation for a low-emission economy, promoting innovative ecological technologies, and ensuring high-quality living conditions for present and future generations. This investment makes Bytom a leader in the transition from a mining heritage to an environmentally sustainable future.

The restructuring of the Coal Mine “Rozbark” initiated the gradual closure of the facility and the search for new ways to redevelop its land. The transformation of post-mining areas has been ongoing for over 21 years and remains unfinished (Fig. 9, Fig 10.).

Figure 9.

Transformation process of Coal Mine “Rozbark”. Author’s study

Figure 10.

Climbing and Strength Sports Centre. Source: Author’s study

Following the decision to part-close the mine, measures were implemented to ensure the viability of the operations and to mitigate any undesirable socio-economic impacts. These measures were very general and based on the geological and mining conditions present at the mine at the time and the legal conditions [42].

Parallel to the decommissioning process led by SRK S.A., the Bytom City Office has been considering future direction of redevelopment for the postmining areas. The initial proposals were comprehensive, encompassing the area between Chorzowska Street and Łagiewnicka Street. These plans outlined a long-term vision for repurposing the closed mining facility and and supported the processing of planning documents (Study of Conditions and Directions of Spatial Development and the Local Spatial Development Plan).

At the same time, municipal authorities made efforts to acquire part of the post-mining land, attract private investors, and secure additional funding, including resources from the Regional Operational Program of the Silesian Voivodeship. As the municipality assumed ownership of the area and external partners withdrew, local authorities have decided to adapt the guildhall and administration building for Dance and Movement Theatre “Rozbark”.

The lack of funds to continue the initially planned redevelopment activities led to a prolonged period of neglect and underutilization of the post-mining site. As a consequence, the technical condition of the remaining cultural heritage structures deteriorated over time, ultimately resulting in their irreversible loss. This situation highlights the critical importance of securing timely and sufficient funding for safeguarding industrial heritage during transformation processes.

Subsequently, the persistent funding gap necessitated a revision of the initial investment strategy, shifting it toward solutions that would enable the acquisition of external funding for the restructuring of post-mining facilities. The newly adopted strategy focused on repurposing the buildings and surrounding land for sports and recreational purposes, thereby transforming the former industrial site into a new cultural and leisure hub for the city.

At the same time, these interventions introduced new nodes of activity within the Rozbark district. By strategically repurposing selected areas, the city was able to counteract further degradation of the neighborhood and initiate a polycentric development policy, aimed at enhancing accessibility to urban functions beyond the historical center. This approach also expanded the city’s recreational offerings, promoting social inclusion and improving the quality of life in formerly neglected urban quarters.

These successful initiatives increased the economic and symbolic value of the site, attracting additional investment and laying the groundwork for broader redevelopment efforts. Furthermore, the rising societal awareness of climate change adaptation – combined with the availability of Just Transition Fund resources – enabled local authorities to reassess the potential of post-mining land through a contemporary, sustainability-focused lens. As of today, construction is underway on the site of the former Coal Mine “Rozbark”coal mine, aimed at establishing a self-sufficient energy transformation hub – the Green Quarter KWK Rozbark. This landmark initiative marks a major step toward sustainable development, uniquely converting a former coal extraction zone into a renewable energy production landscape. By harnessing wind, solar, water, biogas, and hydrogen energy sources, the transformation reflects a paradigm shift – from a fossil fuel-dependent economy to one driven by sustainable, green energy. The project not only aligns with national and EU climate goals, but also offers an innovative model for the adaptive reuse of post-industrial territories.

Nevertheless, analysis of the transformation process at Coal Mine “Rozbark” revealed certain urban integration challenges. Despite the initial concept envisioning a cohesive urban and architectural layout that would integrate the former mine site with the surrounding city fabric, subsequent investments adopted a fragmented, point-based approach. These were limited to the adaptive reuse of selected structures – primarily the former boiler house – and adjacent parcels of land. Although these developments successfully created new public, cultural, and sports spaces that have strengthened social ties and fostered local identity, their spatial isolation from the broader urban structure undermines their long-term integration. Surrounded by industrial remnants, railway infrastructure, and a major traffic artery, these areas now function as “urban islands”, disconnected from Bytom’s main spatial network.

Despite these challenges, the ongoing redevelopment holds substantial potential for spatial reintegration. By transforming the previously enclosed site into an open, multifunctional urban area with recreational, residential, and service-oriented uses, the city has the opportunity to reconnect disjointed zones and restore spatial continuity. This process would not only revitalize degraded land but also contribute to urban cohesion, resilience, and inclusive development in post-industrial Bytom.

The adaptation of post-mining areas aligns with a broader European trend of transforming post-industrial spaces in accordance with the principles of sustainable development. Sustainable development, understood as meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs, integrates environmental protection, social inclusion, and economic growth. It serves as a framework to ensure that urban transformations foster long-term ecological balance, social equity, and economic viability. In this context, green technologies – including renewable energy systems, energy-efficient infrastructure, and smart resource management – play a pivotal role by reducing environmental impact and enhancing the resilience of revitalized spaces.

Modern revitalization efforts aim to integrate energy production, education, and social functions, creating new urban models based on self-sufficiency and climate resilience. The lessons learned from the revitalization of the former Coal Mine “Rozbark” in Bytom highlight several key principles essential for effective transformation.

First, a stable, diversified financing foundation is crucial for successful redevelopment. The Coal Mine “Rozbark” case demonstrates that a lack of continuous and reliable funding can halt investments, reduce the scope of originally planned activities, and, in extreme cases, lead to the irreversible loss of valuable cultural heritage. When funding ceased, the site remained unused for an extended period, resulting in the deterioration of structures and the loss of unique historical assets.

Securing funds from multiple sources — public funds (such as the Just Transition Fund, national and regional resources), private investments, and municipal support – is vital to initiate and sustain the transformation process. Without guaranteed financial backing, the implementation of redevelopment stages becomes practically impossible, often resulting in abandonment or forced changes in strategy, delays, or project discontinuation.

Secondly, the transformation process should be phased and adaptable to changing external conditions. Revitalization projects often span many years and are influenced by economic fluctuations, real estate market dynamics, availability of EU funds, technological innovations, and social preferences. Therefore, planning documents such as the Spatial Development Conditions and Directions Study and local development plans must include flexible, scenario-based provisions that allow strategies to be adjusted to current realities.

Thirdly, new investments must be integrated with the existing urban fabric and designed as multifunctional projects grounded in sustainable development principles. The Coal Mine “Rozbark” example revealed a critical problem of isolating completed structures from the broader urban context — investments were often isolated points lacking spatial and functional integration. To avoid such issues, a comprehensive urban plan covering the entire transformation area should be developed and consistently implemented, aligning with investors’ objectives and local community needs.

The redevelopment of post-mining areas should promote connectivity rather than fragmentation of urban spaces through functional, communicative, and social links. This is especially important for large post-mining sites located in city centers or near dense residential and service areas, where new uses can significantly impact urban balance and residents’ quality of life. Research indicates that multifunctional planning, incorporating residential, service, social, educational, recreational, and energy uses, is key to maximizing the potential of such sites. This approach fosters sustainable development of the entire area, enhances its investment attractiveness, improves spatial cohesion, and delivers diverse social, economic, and environmental benefits.

Another critical element of successful post-mining transformation is the preservation and active use of industrial heritage. Rather than demolishing former mining facilities, adaptive reuse for cultural, educational, tourism, or service functions should be promoted. This not only preserves tangible industrial history but also strengthens local identity, increases spatial attractiveness, and lends a unique, authentic character to the area.

The transformation of Coal Mine “Rozbark”is a notable example of this approach. Despite initial financial difficulties and fragmented redevelopment, local authorities succeeded in rescuing and adapting key mining heritage elements for new social and cultural functions. Notably, the former miners’ changing house and administrative building were converted into the “Rozbark”Dance and Movement Theater — a cultural institution of regional importance attracting residents and visitors alike.

Studies show that preserving mining heritage often not only determines but also initiates the revitalization process of post-mining sites. At Coal Mine “Rozbark”, the decision to protect and utilize buildings listed as historic monuments became a starting point for further revitalization and investment activities. This included converting the old boiler house into the modern “Skarpa”Climbing and Strength Sports Center, and, in the final stage, constructing a multifunctional complex focused on renewable energy production and education — the Green District of KWK “Rozbark”.

Heritage protection encompasses not only the physical preservation of architectural objects but also the nurturing of intangible values — the memories of mining communities, their identity, traditions, and way of life. Incorporating these elements into transformation processes enriches the cultural dimension of investments and enhances the chances of embedding new functions firmly within the social consciousness and urban space.

Finally, the transformation of post-mining areas should be a participatory process, actively involving local communities at every stage — from planning, through implementation, to management of newly created spaces. Engaging residents through social consultations, participatory budgets and public debates is essential for the success of redevelopment initiatives.

Such involvement yields multifaceted benefits: it increases social acceptance of changes, reducing the risk of conflicts or resistance; enables better alignment of planned functions with actual community needs, boosting utility and effectiveness; and strengthens residents’ sense of agency, belonging, and shared responsibility for the urban environment.

Importantly, participation should not be a one-off activity but a continuous dialogue between administration and communities, allowing flexible responses to evolving needs and challenges. Well-designed participatory processes can also stimulate social activation in degraded areas, attracting grassroots initiatives, micro-enterprises, and educational or cultural activities.

In the case of Coal Mine “Rozbark,”participatory elements – such as establishing a cultural institution open to local activities and implementing projects financed by participatory budgets (e.g., the “Gryfny”playground) – positively influenced the perception of the transformation among residents. This demonstrates that active community engagement not only improves the quality of planning and implementation but also ensures the social and long-term sustainability of redevelopment efforts.

The transformation of post-mining areas is not merely a technical change of spatial functions but a complex social, economic, and cultural process shaping the future of entire districts and cities. The Coal Mine “Rozbark”case illustrates that success requires combining a long-term vision with flexibility, heritage protection with innovation, and spatial planning with community engagement.

Sustainable development and green technologies must be central to such transformations, as they ensure that revitalized areas contribute to climate mitigation, resource efficiency, and social inclusion. Incorporating renewable energy systems, energy-efficient infrastructure, and sustainable mobility within redevelopment projects enhances environmental performance while fostering economic resilience and social wellbeing.

Creating a model for transformation that integrates financing, urban planning, heritage conservation, and sustainability principles should become the standard for all post-mining regions in Poland and beyond. Only through this integrated approach will it be possible not only to revitalize degraded spaces but also to fully integrate them into modern, green, and inclusive cities of the future.