New ZEISS production site in Isserstedt - early public participation begins

The city of Jena and Carl Zeiss Grundstücks GmbH & Co. KG are jointly planning a new 28-hectare commercial and industrial area to the west of the existing Isserstedt industrial estate. The aim is to be able to accommodate the long-term growth of ZEISS in Jena in a sustainable and scalable manner. This is in addition to the high-tech site at Westbahnhof and primarily for business units that will remain in the existing building in Lichtenhain for the time being. The new location will secure and further promote the city's economic development.

The city council initiated the "B-Is 12" development plan procedure for this on 24.04.2024. At the same time, the land use plan will be amended, as part of the planning area is currently still designated as agricultural land. The focus of the planning is on a modern, scalable and sustainable production site.

Early participation and public display

In order to involve citizens at an early stage, public participation in accordance with Section 3 (1) BauGB will begin. From 16.01. to 14.02.2025, the planning documents can be viewedonline and at the Department of Urban Development and Environment at Anger 26, 07743 Jena. These include

• Preliminary drafts of the development plan and the amendment to the land use plan with the status of the explanatory statements and environmental reports
• Status of the expert reports on climate protection, traffic, immission control, water supply and soil protection

In addition, an information event will take place on 28.01.2025 at 19:00 in the historic town hall. Mayor Christian Gerlitz, representatives of the administration and ZEISS will present the current planning status and answer questions.

Mayor Gerlitz commented: "I am convinced that the new Zeiss production site will have a positive impact on Jena's economic development for decades to come. It is therefore all the more important for me not only to provide transparent information, but also to ensure broad public participation in order to identify open questions as early as possible and find answers together."

Planned building areas

The preliminary draft of the development plan envisages building areas for production halls in the south. Office and commercial buildings are planned for the northern part. The city of Jena and ZEISS are aiming for a high degree of flexibility in the planning while at the same time making efficient use of space, a climate-adapted construction method and a mobility concept for employees and suppliers.

Expert reports and further planning

The plans include extensive expert reports, including studies on climate and nature conservation, water and energy supply and traffic. Among other things, a connection to the B7 federal highway and the laying of a high-voltage power line are still being examined.

Further procedure

Following early participation in the preliminary draft, the comments from the public will be evaluated. The next stage of the process involves revising the draft development plan. The city council then decides on the second participation phase in accordance with Section 3 (2) BauGB. Finally, the plan is weighed up and adopted.

The city of Jena cordially invites all citizens to actively participate in this important development project and to contribute their opinions and suggestions.