Dunkirk followed a process of hard development in peripheral urban area, as is the case in other French and European cities of comparable scale to the detriment of the city centre. The centre of "modern Dunkirk" has a specific urban form: it lacks density, urban spaces are undefined, and cars are ubiquitous. However, the city has a great potential of attraction because of its barycentric position, the weight of its history as evidenced by buildings and representative areas, as well as the port, waterways and crossing urban connections and core activities located in the heart of the city.

The urban project that takes place in the heart of Dunkirk is part of a comprehensive program of urban regeneration. Therefore, it relies on ongoing projects and ensures link in a perspective of ambitious rehabilitation of downtown, a place of representation of the whole urban area and a great symbolism for Dunkirk.