City council approves plans for residential area on Karl-Liebknecht-Straße

At its meeting yesterday, the city council approved the next step for the planned residential area north of Karl-Liebknecht-Straße. The expansion of the "Erlenhöfe" residential quarter will not only create new living space, but will also create a modern and inviting entrance to the city from the east to Wenigenjena.

The revised draft for the development plan has been finalized and includes plans for new apartments, generous green spaces and well thought-out transport connections. In order to meet the requirements of nature conservation, the procedure has been changed: Instead of a fast-track procedure, a regular procedure will now be carried out. This is in accordance with a recent ruling by the Federal Administrative Court, which ensures that all possible environmental impacts are examined and compensation measures are developed.

"Our goal is sustainable neighborhood development that creates a balance between economic, ecological and social aspects and combines them in a positive way," explains Christian Gerlitz, Mayor and Head of Urban Development and Environment.

The new residential area will have green open spaces, with a large proportion of the parking spaces being underground. New connections for pedestrians and cyclists are also planned to promote environmentally friendly mobility.

Public participation

Public participation plays a central role in this process. The plans already take into account comments from the first participation phase in summer 2023. The preliminary draft of the development plan was made public at that time and 41 specialist authorities and institutions were asked to comment. The suggestions received contributed significantly to the further development of the plan.

All interested parties can view the current draft plan between mid-January and mid-February 2025. The documents will be published on the internet and also displayed in a public place. Information on environmental assessments, noise protection and other relevant topics can also be found there. Details on how to view and participate will be announced in good time.

"With this decision, Jena is sending a strong signal for future-oriented urban development! We are looking forward to the next steps and to creating a livable living environment together with the citizens," says Mayor Christian Gerlitz.