The Agence Française de Développement (AFD), at the request of the Government of Vietnam, initiated a Project Preparation Study to assess and structure potential urban development and climate resilience investments in Bac Kan and Ha Nam provinces. The Project Preparation Study focused on strengthening climate resilience and developing prioritized, cost-effective investment programs for environmental infrastructure, aligned with national development objectives and long-term urban sustainability goals.

As part of a consortium, we contributed technical expertise in urban landscape design and climate-resilient public space planning. We worked closely with the Team Leader and sector experts to review city master plans, assess proposed and existing urban projects, and evaluate embankment protection approaches. Our role included proposing alternative landscape strategies based on water-sensitive urban design principles, identifying options to enhance open spaces and improve river connectivity in both cities, and preparing conceptual sketches to guide further outline design development. We also supported data collection efforts and contributed to the preparation of workshop materials, actively participating in stakeholder consultations and technical discussions.

The study strengthened the climate resilience and environmental sustainability components of proposed urban investments in Bac Kan and Ha Nam. By integrating water-sensitive design principles and improved public space planning, the project supports the development of adaptive, livable, and environmentally responsive urban infrastructure, positioning both provinces for future climate-resilient growth and AFD-supported implementation.