Thun: Canton approves zoning plan amendment for major project

Progress is being made on the new Siegenthalergut district in Thun (BE). The canton has approved the necessary zoning plan amendment. This allows the city of Thun to further develop the new part of the district and the public park. A PlusEnergy district is to be built on the site in stages. A zone with planning obligation (ZPP) defines the framework for future development. Following the city council's approval of this ZPP in July 2024, the Office for Municipal and Spatial Planning (AGR) of the Canton of Bern has now granted its approval. The ZPP is therefore legally binding. "We are now swiftly tackling the next planning steps so that urgently needed living space can be created," says Mayor Raphael Lanz. The city of Thun is developing the area together with Frutiger AG. The planned apartments are aimed at different target groups.

First apartments ready by 2030 at the earliest

The next step will be to draw up a master plan in order to work out the project in more detail. In order to be able to implement the plans, development regulations and architectural competitions are required. The first apartments are expected to be ready for occupation in 2030.

The city attaches great importance to making some of the outdoor space accessible at an early stage. The park is to be designed and developed in such a way "that everyone feels as comfortable as possible", according to a press release. As a first step, trees are to be planted based on the winning project "Plus de jardins".

A hotel also part of the plans

According to earlier information, apartments for 1,500 people are planned on the Siegenthalergut. The number of apartments was given as 600 to 800, of which 180 to 240 would be non-profit, as well as condominiums. Areas for services, a kindergarten and a neighborhood center are also planned. There is also talk of a 3- to 4-star hotel with around 120 rooms. The park will cover an area of 7,100 square meters. (aw)