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Wettingen Rejects Skyscrapers, Embracing a Greener Urban Vision Instead

A small Swiss town stands firm against urban sprawl. Could this rejection of high-rises signal a new era for community-led development?

It is the beautiful view of the city. At the top there is the sky. There are so many houses and...
It is the beautiful view of the city. At the top there is the sky. There are so many houses and buildings one beside the other. At the bottom there are plants and sand.

Wettingen Rejects Skyscrapers, Embracing a Greener Urban Vision Instead

Residents of Wettingen, Aargau, have successfully opposed plans for new high-rise buildings in their town. The town council has decided not to build high-rises over 50 meters tall due to public opposition. Instead, they are considering a garden city concept, which has been approved by some residents like Renate (65).

The most significant change came when the zone designated for taller buildings was abandoned. This decision followed a public review period where 59 objections were submitted, with two significant issues upheld. Alfredo (75) expressed his pleasure with this outcome, stating that high-rises would be 'a bit much' for Wettingen and finding them unattractive near the Weinkreisel.

Bruno (63) believes this opposition marks a shift in thinking regarding urban development. While high-rises up to roughly 33 meters may still be built near the Weinkreisel in the future, Boltshauser Architekten will now lead the construction of a high-rise in the new Quartier Zwhatt, near the Regensdorf-Watt station, close to Spreitenbach and Zürich. This project, however, will not exceed 50 meters in height.

The town council's decision to forgo high-rise buildings in Wettingen has been welcomed by many residents. The future of the town's skyline remains uncertain, with some low to mid-rise buildings still a possibility. Meanwhile, construction of a high-rise in the nearby Quartier Zwhatt continues as planned.

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