Successful completion of the preliminary project for the Horw campus
The Horw campus is on the verge of a decisive further development: the preliminary project for the expansion and modernisation has been successfully completed. The next phase of this pioneering construction project is now beginning, which will have a lasting impact not only on the Canton of Lucerne, but also on the whole of Central Switzerland.
The successful completion of the preliminary project for the expansion and renovation of the Horw campus brings the vision of a modern educational centre a significant step closer. The purpose of the preliminary project phase was to gain detailed insights into the development and cost structure of the construction project. Despite the expected additional costs due to external factors such as construction costs and sustainability-orientated measures, the original project costs of CHF 365 million have been largely confirmed.
Cost development and influencing factors
The analysis has shown that in addition to construction inflation, which accounts for around 18 per cent of the increase in costs, adjustments to VAT also have a significant impact. Further additional costs in the area of sustainability and project development as well as statutory sustainability certifications increase the financial framework. Total expenditure is now expected to amount to CHF 600 million, including reserves of around CHF 78 million. This sum is still in line with comparable projects of a similar scale in Switzerland.
Relevance for education and the economy
Government Councillor and Finance Director Reto Wyss emphasise the continuous monitoring and review of cost developments by the responsible real estate department. The project remains continuously within the planned budget and the additional financial requirements are clearly explained by the review results. Project-related decisions and the dissemination of information are kept transparent in order to ensure public confidence.
The Canton of Lucerne has outsourced the realisation of this major construction project to a non-profit public limited company, “Immobilien Campus Luzern-Horw AG”. This enables efficient and targeted construction in compliance with the referendum and without affecting the special loans that have already been approved.
Outlook and significance for the region
Director of Education Armin Hartmann emphasises the supra-regional significance of the project: “The Horw campus will have a lasting impact on the educational landscape and the business location. Its impact will reach far beyond the borders of Lucerne into the whole of Central Switzerland.” The realisation of this visionary project is therefore expressly welcomed and supported.
The successful completion of the preliminary project has paved the way for the next phase of the construction project. The project management team will promptly initiate the next steps, with the start of construction scheduled for 2026.