Bern: densification project enters public consultation phase
A vote on the demolition and new construction of the "Meienegg" housing estate, which has been classified as worthy of preservation, will be held in 2026.
The Fambau housing cooperative plans to replace the Meienegg housing estate between Bethlehemstrasse and Stöckackerstrasse in Bern with around 330 new apartments on a cost-rental basis. Two existing buildings with a total of 56 apartments will be retained for at least 25 years, while the number of additional apartments is estimated at 120. There are currently 270 apartments. According to the City of Bern, the public consultation began this week. It will run until November 12.
The existing housing estate in the Stöckacker quarter was built by Fambau between 1949 and 1955. The structural redensification and partial renovation is intended to create a new mixed-use development with family-friendly and age-appropriate apartments. The planned densification requires amendments to the building regulations. The Meienegg development plan is based on the "Meie generation project", which has been developed from the winning project into an indicative project. The majority of the buildings planned are four to six storeys high. 330 new apartments are to be built in the high-density development. The project also provides for the preservation of two existing buildings with 56 apartments; these will be renovated and preserved for at least 25 years. Today, Meienegg offers 270 apartments.
Settlement becomes car-free
The mobility concept stipulates that the site is car-free above ground - subject to special trips. A parking garage is planned and 157 parking spaces are permitted. This figure is slightly above the usual urban standard. "This will ensure that the needs of the residents, many of whom work in the trades and rely on business cars, will continue to be met," writes the City of Bern.
Stock actually "worth preserving"
The settlement is classified as worthy of preservation in the City of Bern's building inventory. In its weighing of interests, the municipal council concludes "that the interest in densification, in particular, which is recognized as a national interest, conflicts with the interest in the townscape and monument protection, which should also be given high priority". There are no other locations in Bümpliz-Bethlehem that are similarly suitable for inner densification. A referendum, which is expected to take place at the end of 2026, will decide on the project.
- IB last reported here about the project (aw)
