The Siemensstadt Square project is one of the most significant urban development schemes in Berlin. (File photo)
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Almost twice as many flats are to be built in the new Siemensstadt Square district in Berlin as originally planned.
A new framework plan for the multi-billion-euro project, approved by the Berlin Senate, provides for the construction of around 3,750 flats. Previously, 2,000 had been planned.
At the same time, the plan includes a reduction in office space, as demand for such properties is falling. These are now to be concentrated on a campus near the new Siemensstadt S-Bahn station, which will provide space for innovative businesses, research and future technologies. The new plan also reserves space for industry, leisure and recreation. According to Senator for Economic Affairs Franziska Giffey (SPD), it replaces the previous concept from 2021. Giffey spoke of an important milestone for the further development of the area, which is more than 100 years old. “We want to set the area up for the next 100 years.”
The new 76-hectare urban district, "Siemensstadt Square", is set to be developed by the 2030s on the historic industrial site of Siemens AG in the west of the capital. Ground was broken in 2024. Around 40,000 people are expected to live and work in the new district in future. In addition to residential and commercial properties, plans include a primary school for 600 pupils, with construction due to begin in early 2027, as well as two nurseries. According to earlier reports, a total of 4.5 billion euros is to be invested in the site, 750 million euros of which will come from the Siemens Group, which has its roots in Berlin. The planned reactivation of the so-called Siemensbahn is crucial for transport links to the city centre. According to earlier reports, Deutsche Bahn aims to have the S-Bahn line operational by the end of 2029.