Friday, 8 May 2026
Swiss Life Asset Managers and the City of Düsseldorf have signed a key points agreement for the “Metro Campus” development plan, marking another step forward in the planned D.STRICT mixed-use district in Düsseldorf.
The agreement was signed during the 2026 polis Convention by Düsseldorf Mayor Stephan Keller and representatives of Swiss Life Asset Managers.
The framework agreement defines several parameters for the future planning process, including development quality standards and neighbourhood management requirements. According to the parties involved, the agreement is intended to support the continuation of the zoning process, with construction potentially starting in 2027.
Holger Matheis, CEO of Swiss Life Asset Managers Germany, said the project aims to combine new housing with a broader mix of urban functions while integrating sustainability considerations into the planning process.
“With D.STRICT, we are creating an urban district that combines urgently needed housing with a modern mix of uses, while consistently considering sustainability and future viability,” said Matheis. “The key points agreement is a crucial next step in the successful collaboration with the City of Düsseldorf to realize this ambitious project.”
Mayor Stephan Keller said the agreement establishes a framework for the zoning process and provides greater planning certainty for the next stages of the project.
The planned district will be developed on a site covering approximately 73,200 sqm in the Flingern area of Düsseldorf. Current plans include around 1,500 residential units, including both privately financed and subsidised housing. Retail, restaurants, leisure facilities, daycare centres and public open spaces are also planned as part of the development.
Cornelia Zuschke, Deputy Mayor for Planning, Construction, Housing and Real Estate, said the project places emphasis on long-term urban quality and community integration.
“An urban neighborhood needs a robust urban planning framework and appropriately scaled, high-quality architecture. Our goal is for future residents to feel comfortable from the very beginning,” Zuschke said.
The development concept also includes car-reduced public spaces, mobility-sharing solutions and resource-efficient energy systems. According to Swiss Life Asset Managers, the project is targeting sustainability certification standards at gold level.
