Bern, Switzerland – A significant urban development project is moving forward in the western part of Bern, with the city council overwhelmingly approving plans for a fresh quarter on land currently occupied by Energie Wasser Bern (ewb) and the BLS railway company. The decision, made on Thursday, paves the way for a dense, mixed-leverage district featuring residential housing, workspaces and a new headquarters for ewb. While the city council has given its endorsement, the final decision rests with Bern’s voters, who are expected to have the opportunity to weigh in on the project in June 2026.
The proposed development, located in the Ausserholligen area between Europaplatz and the Weyermannshaus swimming pool, represents a major investment in the city’s infrastructure and housing stock. The project aims to address the growing demand for both affordable housing and modern workspaces within Bern, while also revitalizing a key area of the city. The area is currently part of the Ausserholligen development focus area, a broader initiative encompassing over 40 projects planned for the coming years. This new quarter is envisioned as a vibrant hub, offering more than 1,000 jobs and over 200 cooperative housing units.
City Council Backs Ambitious Redevelopment Plan
The Bern City Council approved the proposal with a resounding 65 to 6 vote, demonstrating broad support for the project. According to a press release from the city, the development will involve the enactment of a building regulation (Überbauungsordnung) and a waiver of the city’s right of first refusal for the ewb land. This means the city will not exercise its option to purchase the land before it is developed. Both of these measures will require approval from the electorate in a public vote. The decision to forgo the right of first refusal is a key component of facilitating the project, allowing ewb and BLS to proceed with their plans without the city intervening in the land transaction.
City President Marieke Kruit (SP) emphasized the importance of the area as one of Bern’s key development sites. “Today, this area is largely closed off,” Kruit stated, “Now there is an opportunity to shape it into something more urban and open.” She further highlighted the project’s contribution to addressing the city’s need for affordable housing, a critical issue for many Bern residents. The plan calls for at least one-third of the residential units to be designated as affordable housing, ensuring a mix of income levels within the new quarter.
High-Rise Buildings and a Focus on Sustainability
The architectural plans for the new quarter are ambitious, envisioning the construction of four high-rise buildings reaching up to 115 meters in height. This density is intended to maximize land use and create new open spaces within the development. The building regulation (ÜO Stöckackerstrasse 33 – Ladenwandweg) will allow for mixed-use development, combining residential and commercial spaces. The plan also encompasses the city’s Familiengartenanlage Ladenwandgut, a community garden, which will be integrated into the overall design.
The project’s commitment to sustainability is also noteworthy. While specific details regarding green building practices were not immediately available, the emphasis on density and mixed-use development aligns with principles of sustainable urban planning, reducing reliance on private vehicles and promoting walkable, livable neighborhoods. The relocation of ewb’s headquarters to the new quarter is expected to further contribute to the area’s vibrancy and economic activity. The city’s energy provider’s presence will likely attract related businesses and create a hub for innovation in the energy sector.
Stakeholders and the Path Forward
The development of the ewb/BLS area involves several key stakeholders. The City of Bern, as the governing body, is responsible for approving the building regulations and ensuring the project aligns with the city’s overall development goals. Ewb and BLS, as the landowners, are driving the project forward and will be responsible for the construction and management of the new quarter. The residents of Bern, through the upcoming public vote, will have the final say on whether the project proceeds as planned. Local community groups and residents living near the development site will also be affected by the project and will likely have a voice in shaping its details.
The decision to move forward with the project represents a significant step in Bern’s ongoing efforts to modernize its infrastructure and address its housing needs. The development is expected to create a significant economic boost for the city, attracting new businesses and residents. However, the project also faces potential challenges, including concerns about traffic congestion, environmental impact, and the preservation of green spaces. The city council has pledged to address these concerns through careful planning and community engagement.
Key Details of the Proposed Development
- Location: Ausserholligen, Bern, between Europaplatz and the Weyermannshaus swimming pool.
- Land Ownership: Owned by Energie Wasser Bern (ewb) and BLS.
- Residential Units: Over 200 cooperative housing units, with at least one-third designated as affordable housing.
- Workspaces: More than 1,000 jobs are expected to be created.
- Building Heights: Up to 115 meters in four designated areas.
- Key Approvals Needed: Enactment of a building regulation and waiver of the city’s right of first refusal, both subject to a public vote in June 2026.
The upcoming public vote in June 2026 will be a crucial moment for the project. Bern residents will have the opportunity to express their support or opposition to the plans, shaping the future of this important area of the city. The city government is expected to launch a public information campaign in the coming months to educate voters about the project and address any concerns they may have. The outcome of the vote will determine whether Bern moves forward with this ambitious redevelopment plan, creating a new vibrant quarter that will contribute to the city’s economic and social well-being.
The next key date for this project is the public vote scheduled for June 2026. Residents of Bern will have the opportunity to cast their ballots on the proposed development, determining its future. We encourage readers to stay informed about this important issue and participate in the democratic process. Share your thoughts on this project in the comments below, and let us know how you think this development will impact the city of Bern.