Potential for transformation despite development delay in Basel
A new study by the Sotomo research institute, commissioned by the "Basel vorwärts" initiative, shows that Basel is lagging behind other major Swiss cities in terms of housing construction and population and job growth. Nevertheless, the city harbours considerable potential for urban transformation and development.
The study conducted by Sotomo shows that Basel has experienced subdued growth momentum over the last ten years, particularly in comparison with cities such as Zurich, Geneva and Bern. With only six per cent growth in the housing stock since 2012, Basel brings up the rear among the eight largest Swiss cities. Only a small proportion of flats were built after 1990, which suggests a delayed development dynamic.
Demographic challenges and opportunities
The study also emphasises that Basel is the only city in the study that does not have a birth surplus, which indicates a weak population dynamic. The comparatively low proportion of young adults and families and the high proportion of older households reflect a demographic challenge that also influences the development of the labour market.
Despite these challenges, the study emphasises that new-build flats do not necessarily lead to higher rents in existing flats. On the contrary, they could even revitalise the market for affordable flats in older buildings. This points to untapped opportunities in urban planning and development.
The potential of “Klybeck Plus“
One particularly striking example of untapped potential is the planned “Klybeck Plus” urban quarter. This area is to be built on a former industrial site and offers space for flats for 8,500 people and 7,500 jobs. similar to Basel’s Gundeli or Geneva’s Le Pâquis neighbourhood, “Klybeck Plus” could offer a lively mix of living and working and at the same time be as green as Basel’s Gellert district.
The study emphasises that, despite current challenges, Basel has considerable potential that can be exploited through strategic planning and innovative development concepts. The results are a wake-up call for urban planners, developers and political decision-makers to mobilise the available resources and reposition Basel as a dynamic and future-oriented city.