Saturday, 15 March 2025
The Prague city leadership has approved a long-awaited change to the zoning plan, paving the way for significant development around the former Žižkov Freight Station. Alongside this decision, the city council also endorsed agreements with developers for financial contributions toward public infrastructure, a crucial step in transforming the area into a thriving residential district. The councilors will still vote on final approval of the plan and contracts.
The Prague City Hall has also acquired the historic station building from Czech Railways, securing a key element of the redevelopment plan.
Major Urban Transformation Underway
“This is a very significant change. The character of the area will evolve, allowing for the construction of apartments, schools, and public amenities. A new urban district will emerge here,” said Zdeněk Kovářík (ODS), Prague’s finance councilor.
The majority of land surrounding the station had previously been under a development ban, which necessitated the zoning plan change. Although a new construction law rendered the ban obsolete, an updated zoning framework remains essential for residential developments in the area. The city first initiated the plan change in 2008, with formal proceedings beginning in 2010.
Largest Zoning Plan Change in Prague’s History
The approved modification marks the largest zoning adjustment in Prague, allowing for housing for up to 20,000 residents. Approximately 95% of the area will be designated for residential use, based on an urban study commissioned by the city, which envisions a mix of housing, public services, schools, and parks. However, the project has faced criticism from local activist groups and environmental organizations over its impact on the area.
Developer Contributions & Infrastructure Commitments
To fund essential public infrastructure, the city has secured financial commitments from developers through so-called planning agreements. Contracts have already been signed with Finep and Prague 3, while additional agreements with Sekyra Group, Central Group, Penta, and MY Park were approved yesterday. In total, investors will co-finance 1.4 billion CZK in public infrastructure.
Developers have pledged to construct a kindergarten, social service facilities, four parks, and renovated public spaces. They will also provide land for a planned tram line, which Prague’s transport authority intends to begin constructing next year.
“A significant portion of these funds will go toward educational development in the area. The agreement with Central Group includes building a six-classroom kindergarten, while Sekyra Group will contribute over 411 million CZK for a new elementary school,” stated Pavel Dobeš (STAN), Deputy Mayor of Prague 3. Overall, the area will see the construction of five kindergartens and two elementary schools.
Future of the Historic Žižkov Freight Station
At the end of last year, Prague purchased the historic station building from Czech Railways for 1.43 billion CZK. The site will be revitalized to include a school, apartments, retail, and cultural spaces.
“The station building is monumental and plays a key role in the transformation of one of Prague’s largest brownfields. We aim to incorporate an extension with mixed-use facilities, though this will require discussions with heritage authorities,” said Adam Zábranský (Pirates), Prague’s property councilor.
Built in the functionalist style between 1934 and 1937, the Žižkov Freight Station ceased operations in 2002. With the new zoning plan and infrastructure commitments in place, the area is set for a major revival, turning it into one of Prague’s most significant redevelopment projects in the coming years.
Source: CTK
Photo: Zdeněk Kovářík (ODS)
