Industrial District 2.0, Rothenburg
A forward-looking industrial district is much more than just a production site – it is a place for businesses, innovation and sustainable development. The industrial area of the future combines the highest quality in design with the resource-efficient use of energy and space.
Our urban development and transport concept for the cantonal ESP Rothenburg is a prime example of how these new requirements can be reconciled. As one of the largest and most important industrial areas in the canton of Lucerne – according to the structure plan, growth of 10,000 jobs is anticipated – the ESP Rothenburg is setting new standards.
The landscape, nature and open spaces are structuring elements for further development. Four green corridors cross the area, connecting forest areas and small rivers. There is a coherent network of green street spaces. They ensure access, but as spaces for everyone, they are also important addresses and places of representation. Furthermore, further expansion of urbanized areas is not a priority, which means that the surrounding cultural landscape will be preserved. Instead, the concept highlights the diverse possibilities for stacking uses, including for industry and production. In this way, density becomes a quality.
A central theme is the coordination between urban development and transport and the use of micro-locations for economic diversity. For example, a high density is specified in the immediate vicinity of the railway station, with a focus on services and commerce. This creates a centre in the most central location, as a lively meeting place for the industrial area. Industrial companies with high heavy goods traffic are located on the northern edge of the area. The existing retail park cluster between the motorway and the railway will be densified.
Small adjustments to the road system will also optimise access. A new link road will not only relieve congestion on the east side of the station square, but also the entire transport system in the area around the motorway junction. Overall, however, the focus in terms of transport is on public transport, walking and cycling. The concept shows that further qualitative economic growth can go hand in hand with a reduction in car traffic.
