⏱ 2 min read
Background
Zermatt, a resort in Upper Valais, suffers from a chronic shortage of housing for residents and staff. Zermatt architect and hotelier Heinz Julen is behind the “Lina Peak” project, a 260-metre tower that would be the tallest in Switzerland. At the same time, the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn (MGB) railway plans to move its current tracks into a tunnel at the entrance to the village.
The key points
The MGB wants to use the land earmarked for the tower as a temporary storage area during the tunnel works, according to Blick, as reported by 24 Heures. Heinz Julen has lodged an objection with the Federal Office of Transport (FOT).
The plot lies around two kilometres from the entrance to the village. The company wants to store materials and rubble there during construction, then during the dismantling of the old line. This occupation could last more than ten years.
The 62-storey tower would include more than 500 flats for residents and resort staff. To keep prices affordable, the permitted increase on resale would be capped at 2% a year. Luxury flats in the upper part would ensure financial viability.
Key figures
- 500 million francs : estimated value of the Lina Peak project
- More than 500 : flats for residents and staff
- 2% a year : cap on resale price increases
- 400 of 600 : signatures already collected to secure a municipal referendum on the rezoning
What it means for businesses
- Zermatt hotels and shops : the project aims to house their staff, who currently face a shortage.
- Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn : its tunnel works need a storage area nearby.
Who says what
- Heinz Julen (architect, project developer): he believes the tower would lose all purpose once the tunnel is completed.
- Matterhorn Gotthard Infrastruktur AG : it examines each objection individually, in direct dialogue with the parties concerned.
What's next
- Review of the objection by theFederal Office of Transport.
- A municipal referendum in Zermatt is to decide on the rezoning required for the tower.
Further reading
Sources
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