Bussigny, a municipality in the western Lausanne region of Switzerland, is undergoing a significant urban development project.
The project aims to transform a long-abandoned site into a vibrant neighborhood for 1,200 residents. The site was previously owned by the Veillon company and has been dormant since its closure in 2005. The Swisscanto investment foundation, the current owner, faced challenges in managing the site, including a temporary caravan camp. To address these issues, the foundation took proactive measures, such as removing the asphalt surface.
The planning application for the project has recently been launched, marking an important milestone for Bussigny. The first phase of the project will involve the construction of three buildings, including residential units, offices, shops, warehouses, and a hotel. The overall plan includes the development of 591 homes, with the first phase alone accounting for 268 units. The project is estimated to cost around half a billion francs.
In addition to residential spaces, the new district will have commercial and service-oriented facilities, occupying approximately half of the total area. The project emphasizes sustainability and includes an agricultural greenhouse on one of the residential buildings to promote local food production.
The development will be executed in phases, with the first phase expected to start next year. The entire project is projected to be completed by 2030. The planning process has involved transparency, with all relevant documents accessible online. The project initially proposed a higher density of residents, but it was revised to accommodate a 20% reduction in density based on concerns from local elected officials. This iterative approach reflects the municipality"s commitment to balancing development with community needs and environmental sustainability.
The project in Bussigny serves as an example of efforts to address housing shortages and improve residents" quality of life in the region. It also showcases the potential for innovative urban planning to revitalize underutilized spaces while promoting community engagement and sustainability.