New design guidelines for Zurich Lengg: a step into the future

May 2024

With the introduction of the design plan obligation in the Lengg area, the city of Zurich is taking a decisive step towards ensuring high-quality development that is compatible with the neighbourhood. This measure, based on the "Lengg Masterplan" and the cantonal structure plan, reflects the public interest in sustainable urban development.

In an endeavour to shape the structural development in the eastern outskirts of Zurich in a harmonious and future-oriented manner, the city council has decided on a partial revision of the building and zoning regulations (BZO) for the Lengg area. This step follows a careful examination and aims to implement the development principles laid down in the “Lengg Masterplan” and the cantonal structure plan in a binding manner. The design plan obligation aims to ensure that new construction projects and outdoor spaces are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also take into account environmental aspects and the local transport infrastructure.

The Lengg area, embedded in the Hirslanden and Riesbach neighbourhoods and adjacent to Zollikon, is home to important institutions in the healthcare and research sector. The imminent opening of the new University Children’s Hospital Zurich (Kispi) will further strengthen the importance of Lengg as a medical and scientific cluster. This location is also characterised as a popular recreational area and as a showcase for pioneering medical innovations.

The strategic development of Lengg, coordinated by the area management, aims to ensure a harmonious interplay of diverse uses and to strengthen the area as a whole. The Department of Health and Education, under the direction of the Office for Spatial Development of the Zurich Building Department, has drawn up a master plan that sets out a long-term perspective up to 2040 and serves as a basis for the future planning and realisation of construction projects.

By implementing the Lengg design plan requirement, the City of Zurich is confirming its commitment to well thought-out and integrated urban development that meets the requirements of a growing metropolis and at the same time improves the quality of life of its residents.

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