In the dynamic and pressured landscape of Luxembourg’s housing market, innovative solutions are essential to address the growing challenges of affordability and community integration. One promising approach is the housing cooperative model, which offers an alternative to traditional homeownership and renting. These cooperatives emphasise communal living, ecological responsibility, and affordability, providing a sustainable and inclusive solution to the housing crisis. Cedric Metz, the president of Adhoc, Luxembourg’s first non-profit housing cooperative, offers valuable insights into the value of housing cooperatives, their role in Luxembourg’s housing market, and the future prospects for such initiatives in the country.

What are housing cooperatives and what is their added value?

Housing cooperatives are organisations that create and manage housing collectively, based on principles of self-help and self-responsibility. Members of a cooperative actively participate in the planning and design of their living spaces and social interactions. The primary value of these living arrangements lies in fostering community and social cohesion. Additionally, the housing is often constructed with ecological considerations and provides affordable accommodation below market rates, contributing to social stability and promoting sustainable living. Housing cooperatives are one form of community housing, next to co-living, rental house syndicates, and communities of owners. People who wish to live together join forces and jointly operate a building in whose flats they are granted the right to live. If economic profits are excluded, the co-operative operates on a non-profit basis.

What is the state of the housing market in Luxembourg and what role do housing cooperatives play?

The housing market in Luxembourg is characterised by high prices and a shortage of affordable housing. Demand far outstrips supply, leading to increasing rents and property prices. Housing cooperatives offer a valuable alternative in this context. They could create affordable housing and promote new forms of communal living, and like Adhoc can promote and raise awareness about the relevance of members not only receiving housing but also participating in the planning and design of their living environments. This potentially fosters a high level of social integration and mutual support.

What challenges do housing cooperatives and alternative housing models face in Luxembourg?

Housing cooperatives and alternative housing models are facing several hindrances in Luxembourg. One major issue is financing. Since these projects are often non-profit, accessing traditional funding sources can be difficult. Additionally, there is a significant need for political support. The housing market is heavily dominated by economic interests, making it challenging to implement socially oriented housing projects. Directly linked to that, the finding and acquisition of land depicts a significant challenge for implementing alternative forms of housing initiated by housing cooperatives due to low land availability, zoning restrictions and limited financing models. It is important to raise awareness among the public and decision-makers about the benefits of these housing models, and to provide them with adequate tools and competences to guide and support such projects from finding a site over adequate financing to facilitating the integration in the existing neighbourhood.

How does Adhoc operate?

Adhoc is a non-profit housing cooperative dedicated to promoting new housing forms and developing cohousing projects. In general, the cooperative provides members with housing that is ecologically built and socially oriented. Members actively participate in the planning of their homes and the structuring of their communal living. A recent pilot project of community housing in Luxembourg’s business district Kirchberg in cooperation with the public developer Fonds Kirchberg was shut down in beginning of 2021. Fonds Kirchberg established of conditions for the site Réimerwee that Ad-Hoc, as a non-profit cooperative, could not meet, such as selling the apartments and selecting residents based on social status. Thus, Adhoc decided not to participate in the tender and will instead focus on promoting social and ecological housing projects. Additionally, the housing cooperative advises those interested in setting up cohousing projects and informs the public and policymakers about the benefits of communal living. Currently, Adhoc is working on a collaborative housing project in Weiler-la-Tour.

Planned housing project in Weiler-la-Tour (Source: Adhoc)

What support do you see from local authorities and the government?

Political support is essential for the successful implementation of housing projects like those of Adhoc. Municipalities and the government should provide financial resources and establish legal frameworks that facilitate the creation and operation of housing cooperatives. Recognising and promoting the benefits of communal living models is crucial as well as encouraging non-profit organisations as relevant actors on the housing market. This does not only include financial support but also the provision of land, the adaptation of building regulations and adapted public procurement such as concept awarding. Additionally, capacity building regarding technical and regulatory expertise within the municipalities could support housing cooperatives, e.g. through counselling centres for those interested in the foundation process.

What is the future outlook for housing cooperatives in Luxembourg?

The future outlook for housing cooperatives in Luxembourg is promising but also challenging. If the demand on the housing market and political will for communal living is not increasing, it will remain difficult to implement alternative forms of housing. Rising housing costs and a desire for sustainable and socially integrated living contribute to increasing interest in alternative housing models. Adhoc is pursuing an alternative way, demonstrating that communal living is not only possible but also desirable. However, it is important that political frameworks continue to improve to provide sustainable support for these housing models.

Contact

Adhoc: info@adhoc.lu

References

Interview by CIPU with Cedric Metz, 24th May 2024

Adhoc (English, French, German): https://www.adhoc.lu/

The Master Programme for Spatial Planning in Luxembourg, known as “Programme directeur d’aménagement du territoire” (PDAT) 2023, is the central element of the country’s spatial planning policy. Serving as a framework for a sustainable development of the national territory and for enhancing the quality of life of all citizens, the PDAT defines an integrated strategy for sectorial policies with a territorial impact and defines guidelines, objectives and measures for the government and municipalities. The newly adopted PDAT (21 June 2023), which was prepared by the Department of Spatial Planning in cooperation with an interministerial working group, builds upon a large public participation process in 2018 and the international consultation “Luxembourg in Transition” in 2020—2022.

Structure and objectives

PDAT 2035 (Source: Département de l’aménagement du territoire (DATer) 2023)

In order to frame the strategy, objectives and measures, the PDAT was developed in accordance with the following four guiding principles:

  • Increasing the resilience of the territory
  • Safeguarding territorial, social and economic cohesion
  • Ensuring a sustainable management of natural resources
  • Accelerating the transition of the territory to carbon neutrality

Based on those guiding principles, three policy objectives and a cross-cutting objective have been identified, addressing the development issues highlighted in the spatial analysis as well as the challenges imposed by climate, environmental, geopolitical and health crises:

1. Concentration of development in the most suitable places: Central to the PDAT’s mission is guiding sector policies and supporting municipalities in locating essential functions and services in the most suitable places. This aims to facilitate access to services, anticipate and reduce mobility needs as well as plan for critical infrastructure.

By guiding future development, the PDAT enables efficient infrastructure planning and a cost-effective implementation of sector policies. The territorial strategy encompasses an urban hierarchy based on Central Places (centres de développement et d’attraction, CDA), which is supposed to steer the spatial distribution of population (i.e. development) and employment growth (i.e. attraction) in a sustainable manner.

2. Reducing land take: The PDAT focuses on limiting the process of converting natural, agricultural or forest land into built-up areas. Decreasing land take offers several benefits, including mitigating the effects of climate change, preserving natural and semi-natural areas, minimising flood risks, protecting biodiversity, and fostering carbon sequestration. The goal is to gradually reduce land take from by 2035 and tend towards no net land take (zéro artificialisation nette du sol) by 2050.

Dynamics of soil artificialisation 2007-2018 (Source: Département de l’aménagement du territoire (DATer) 2023)

To achieve this, the PDAT puts forward a planning culture that promotes urban regeneration, multifunctionality and efficient land management.

3. Cross-border spatial planning: Taking into account the functional linkages between Luxembourg and its cross-border functional region, the PDAT recognises the need for a concerted territorial development in the Greater Region (Grande Région). To address ecological and climate transition challenges, the Master Programme promotes territorial development strategies for cross-border functional areas, consultation with neighbouring regions in the framework of planning processes, and cross-border resource management.

4. Collaborative Governance as a cross-cutting objective: In the PDAT, governance is considered to be a cross-cutting objective, emphasising the coordination required for effective spatial planning. This is meant to happen horizontally across sector policies, vertically between the State and municipalities, as well as through public participation.

Time Horizon

The PDAT2023 is meant to unfold in two phases: 2023-2035 and 2035-2050. The first period until 2035 will act as a transition phase, which contributes to reversing the current development trends. Actions will focus on identifying and adopting instruments for the implementation of the Master Programme as well as initiating pilot projects and stakeholder connections.

The second phase, from 2035 to 2050, will ensure a steady transition and reverse the trends in question by the implementation of the strategies, while monitoring the developments as well as adapting approaches as needed.

Programme directeur d'aménagement du territoire 2023 - Stratégies territoriales - Portail de l'aménagement du territoire - Luxembourg
Vision 2050 in the PDAT (Source: Département de l’aménagement du territoire (DATer) 2023)

Implementation

In order to achieve the above-mentioned policy objectives in the given timeframes, two territorial strategies have been developed at different scales. First, the national territorial development strategy “Leitbild 2050” envisions a carbon-neutral and resilient territory, emphasising green, yellow and blue networks, the concentration of development in accordance with the urban hierarchy, and a sustainable mobility. This national territorial development strategy has also been broken down to so-called action areas (espaces d’action) at a functional-regional level. In this context, territorial visions for the three urban agglomerations have also been developed. Second, the territorial development strategy at the level of the Greater Region promotes cooperation in cross-border action areas, in accordance with the Interreg VI Greater Region programme. This cooperation fosters integrated territorial development in cross-border functional areas, complementing previous approaches by addressing challenges linked to the environment and natural resources. The implementation of strategies will be fostered through the adaptation of existing regulatory instruments and the potential creation of new ones.

Conclusion

The Master Programme for Spatial Planning in Luxembourg sets a forward-looking and ambitious territorial vision. By addressing climate change, resource preservation and sustainable growth, the PDAT paves the way for the ecological transition of the territory. Through clear strategic objectives and cross-sectoral coordination, Luxembourg is taking a further step towards sustainable development and enhancing citizens’ quality of life.

References

Master Programme for Spatial Planning in Luxembourg – “Programme directeur d’aménagement du territoire” (PDAT) 2023 (French): https://amenagement-territoire.public.lu/content/dam/amenagement_territoire/pdat-programme-directeur-damnagement-du-territoire-4072023.pdf

Spatial planning portal (French): https://amenagement-territoire.public.lu/fr/strategies-territoriales/programme-directeur.html

The 3D model featured on the National Geoportal of the Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg provides a comprehensive and detailed representation of Luxembourg’s landscape. This digital rendering aims to serve as a robust and accessible source of geospatial data, facilitating informed decision-making for policymakers, local administrations, and private individuals. The 3D model strives to encapsulate the intricate details of the country, from individual trees and buildings to streets, offering a dynamic platform for diverse applications and insights into Luxembourg’s terrain.

3D scale model of a section of Luxembourg city (https://www.geoportail.lu/en/)

In a groundbreaking move towards comprehensive data representation, the Luxembourgish Geoportal has expanded its services from traditional two-dimensional maps to an immersive three-dimensional model. The meticulous creation of this 3D model involved the precise measurement of Luxembourg from above, capturing 82 billion reference points that define every tree, building, and street in the Grand Duchy. The extensive data collection for the 3D model included aerial imagery, ground elevation, and detailed information about buildings and vegetation.

The general dataset within Geoportail.lu forms the basis for various thematic sections, covering topics such as water management, agriculture, energy, and the recently introduced section dedicated to nature parks. The digital platform proves instrumental in the effective management of nature parks, allowing stakeholders to access pertinent information effortlessly. For instance, those engaged in agriculture can utilise the platform to streamline data retrieval, consequently reducing delays in negotiations related to the management of these critical natural areas.

3D scale model of a section of Luxembourg city with vegetation (https://www.geoportail.lu/en/)

The platform’s significance extends beyond nature conservation, reaching into the realm of spatial planning and policy advice. The Geoportal can simplify complex decision-making processes in the development and sustainability of Luxembourg’s landscape, e.g. aiding in the identification of optimal locations for tree planting, particularly crucial in mitigating the impact of rising heatwaves. With a substantial user base of around 5,000 daily visitors, Geoportail.lu is a helpful tool, catering to the diverse needs of individuals, governmental ministries, and local administrations.

Moreover, the integration of the 3D model into the Geoportal serves as a powerful tool for urbanism, offering urban planners and architects a nuanced understanding of spatial dynamics. This enhanced spatial insight aids in optimising city layouts, infrastructure development, and the creation of more sustainable and liveable urban environments. It can also act as a catalyst for fostering collaborative initiatives. Through facilitating stakeholder engagement, the model allows urban planners, policymakers, and community members to collaboratively envision and refine development projects.

Generation of a map section in STL format on Geoportail.lu (https://3dprint.geoportail.lu/commande)

For those interested in specific data details, the Digital Building Luxembourg website (see below) provides further insights into the creation process of the 3D model. Additionally, the OpenData portal of the State (see below) offers downloadable files and resources related to the 3D model, including terrain models and surface models that can be printed in 3D or utilised in professional drawing or rendering software. The Administration du Cadastre et de la Topographie (see below) offers a detailed breakdown of available formats, use cases, and specific data sources, ensuring transparency and credibility in the utilisation of 3D geospatial information. Adding to this, the act2bim.geoportail.lu, a platform where georeferenced or local 3D files in Collada, IFC, or Sketchup formats can be ordered is set to launch end of January 2024.

Preview of the ACT2BIM Website (Geoportail.lu)

The integration of the 3D model into the Geoportal not only elevates the user experience by offering a more immersive representation of Luxembourg’s landscape but also significantly enhances the platform’s utility across various sectors. This advanced spatial visualisation proves invaluable for urban planning and architectural simulations, providing a three-dimensional perspective that aids in optimising spatial development. Additionally, the 3D model enriches the Geoportal’s functionality for environmental conservation, allowing conservationists and policymakers to make more informed decisions regarding biodiversity preservation and sustainable land use. The synergistic integration of the 3D model into the Geoportal underscores its role as a dynamic and comprehensive tool, fostering improved decision-making processes and contributing to the holistic understanding of Luxembourg’s diverse terrain.

Contact

Geoportail: support@geoportail.lu

Digital Building Luxembourg: contact@crtib.lu

CIPU: cipu@zeyenbaumann.lu

References and further information

National Geoportail of the Grand-Duchy Luxembourg: https://www.geoportail.lu/en/

Digital Building Luxembourg website (FR): https://www.digitalbuilding.lu/fr/actualite/maquette-3d-du-territoire-national-luxembourgeois/

OpenData portal of the State: https://data.public.lu/

3D Print Export generation: https://3dprint.geoportail.lu/

Administration du Cadastre et de la Topographie: https://act.public.lu/fr/cartographie/export-print-3d.html

The second workshop organised by the CIPU office on the 18th of October narrowed down the annual topic of multifunctionality in the city by focusing on the integration of production and crafts in the city. The participants had the chance to delve into the concept of the Productive City from the different perspectives of municipal strategy development, the technical implementation and the regulatory framework.

The event was hosted in the former fire station barracks in Luxembourg city. The afternoon began with introductory presentations by the City of Luxembourg and the Chambre of Crafts (Chambre des Métiers). These included the Schluechthaus project in Hollerich and the development of the site around the fire station barracks and the former stadium. The focus here was on the technical conversion work on the barracks and the old Schluechthaus in order to bring the buildings up to the current safety regulations for public buildings for interim use. The third presentation dealt with the survey results of the Chambre des Métiers regarding the property requirements of craft businesses in the country.

Source: Ville de Luxembourg

The workshop began with an introductory presentation looking back on the previous thematic workshop in June and the excursion to Brussels in August facilitated by the CIPU. The tasks of the three discussion tables were then introduced. This was followed by a phase of group work in which all participants were assigned to a discussion group, each of which dealt with different aspects of the realisation of the productive city. The results of the discussions are explained in more detail in this documentation.

The first group focused on developing a comprehensive strategy for the implementation of the “Productive City” concept in municipalities. The discussion emphasized the need for both national and municipal-level actions, with the proposed national strategy serving as a guide for municipalities, linking them through centralised elements like a registry of businesses and potential mixed-use areas, as well as a crafts agency. The strategy identified the importance of clear goals, typologies in a national register, and the establishment of cross-sector working groups and a national crafts agency to ensure a multifaceted and coordinated approach. Key actors include a National Crafts Agency, municipalities, the Ministry of the Interior, the Crafts Chamber, and Luxembourg, each playing crucial roles in coordination, financial support, local implementation, and regulatory oversight.

Source: Ville de Luxembourg

The second group delved into the technical implementation of the “Productive City” concept, examining two projects within the current regulatory framework. The first project focused on a productive ground floor in an urban setting, aiming to divide 2,600 m² into flexible modules for various tenants, posing challenges related to flexibility, compatibility, and efficient building planning. The second project involved repurposing historic industrial halls for productive use, facing challenges concerning compatibility with other uses, heritage preservation, and operational concepts. The group identified challenges such as stakeholder coordination, urban integration, and flexibility of building structures, proposing solutions like national-level frameworks, internal building concepts, and zoned programming to address these concerns and make these projects feasible and adaptable over time.

The third group focused on the regulatory framework, aiming to identify obstacles and problematic provisions within existing municipal regulations (PAG/PAP QE/RBVS) related to the implementation of mixed-use areas combining residential and artisanal activities. The discussion revealed that challenges extend beyond local regulations, requiring national-level interventions. Key obstacles included the PAG zones’ strong emphasis on functional separation, parking space regulations, and the absence of a national definition for artisanal activities. Proposed solutions included national-level adjustments to the Règlement Grand-Ducal, standardised parking regulations, and clear definitions for artisanal activities to facilitate local implementation. Additionally, the group advocated for enabling densification in existing activity zones, securing existing businesses, and addressing the impact of the current real estate market on the attractiveness of various functions. The need for collaborative decision-making involving municipalities was emphasised throughout the discussion.

Source: Ville de Luxembourg

The workshop shed light on the urban challenges of blending housing and craftsmanship, emphasising the need for collaborative and holistic solutions. Group discussions pinpointed obstacles like technical requirements for buildings, zoning restrictions and parking norms, stressing the call for centralised coordination and requirement analyses. Overall, the workshop underscored the importance of a united effort to craft practical, flexible strategies for fostering dynamic, mixed-use urban spaces.

Contact

CIPU: cipu@zeyenbaumann.lu

References

CIPU website (French and German): https://site.cipu.lu/

“Luxembourg in Transition” (LiT) can be characterised as an innovative process with the aim of rethinking and reshaping the territorial transition of Luxembourg and its neighbouring regions across the border by developing visions for a desirable future until 2050. The territorial visioning approach is innovative in the sense that it goes beyond traditional planning culture and instruments in an interdisciplinary manner and the spirit of coopetition.

Aim

The main objective of this innovative process is to develop different territorial visions, based on ecological transition scenarios, strategic spatial planning solutions and demonstration projects, for a decarbonised and resilient cross-border functional region of Luxembourg until 2050. The ecological transition refers to achieving the objectives of zero carbon emission while:

  • reducing land take;
  • enhancing biodiversity, improving ecosystem quality;
  • integrating the aspects of housing, transport, energy and digitalisation;
  • creating concepts and models for a territory resilient to climate change;
  • promoting an economic development that is stable, equitable and solidarity-based; and
  • strengthening territorial and social cohesion.

The territorial visions are based on the long-term horizon of 2050. By comparing the visions with the business-as-usual scenario, it becomes possible to identify the changes required for achieving the objectives and design a roadmap.

source: Luxembourg in Transition, 2020: Logo

Partnership

The LiT process was initiated by the Department of Spatial Planning of the Ministry of Energy and Spatial Planning. The consultation was accompanied by different committees: The Scientific Committee provided expertise from research and planning practice; the Advisory Committee incorporated the interests of partner and stakeholder organisations from Luxembourg and the Greater Region; the Interministerial Committee engaged all relevant sector ministries and steered the process; and the Citizens’ Committee (Biergerkommitee Lëtzebuerg 2050) introduced the population’s perspective and addressed recommendations to political decision-makers. An external service provider was tasked with the scientific management of the process and overseeing the work of the expert teams.

Activities

The international consultation within the framework of the LiT process was designed as a three-stage cooperative competition (“coopetition”), aiming to engage international experts from various disciplines and stimulate cross-fertilisation among teams. The consultation brought together practitioners, universities and other research organisations and gathered knowledge in the fields of regional and urban development as well as architecture, environmental and social sciences. The initial ten teams started working in October 2020 and the four final teams presented their results in January 2022. The three stages of the consultation aimed to refine and concretise the so-called “transition visions” developed in each preceding phase.

Stage 1: In this stage, the expert teams were tasked with developing a quantitative approach to assess the effectiveness of measures in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The metrics needed to quantify various aspects related to land use, energy consumption, waste management, food production, water resources or biodiversity.

Stage 2: Building upon their work in Stage 1, the expert teams were required to apply their metrics to the territory and show how innovative concepts in spatial planning could be implemented. The focus was on the cross-border functional region of Luxembourg, exploring the potentials and challenges of implementing measures in a cross-border context.

Stage 3: The final stage called for the expert teams to develop concrete strategies and exemplary projects to anchor the vision both within Luxembourg and across borders. This stage emphasised topics such as energy efficiency, the protection of biodiversity, resilience and climate change adaptation, resource scarcity and food security.

University of Luxembourg et al., 2021: Representation of a converted commercial area

For instance, the team led by the University of Luxembourg presented measures for regenerating industrial parks and commercial areas through conversion, multifunctional usage, the use of local products and renaturing. The experts developed their vision using the example of the commercial area Foetz in Mondercange, Luxembourg.

Further projects and detailed information about the entire LiT process can be found on the website: https://luxembourgintransition.lu/en/

Outlook

The LiT process represents an innovative approach to shaping the future of Luxembourg. By engaging a diverse range of actors, implementing a multi-stage competition, and incorporating cross-border aspects, the process aims to develop a sustainable and resilient Luxembourg in a sustainable and resilient manner. The vision’s long-term horizon of 2050 provides a framework for setting goals, identifying necessary changes, and establishing a roadmap for this development. The next step is to shift from theory to practical implementation, which consists of pilot projects and demonstrating the ability of the functional region Luxembourg to transition towards a carbon-free territory. Additionally, the transferability and application of the LiT process in other territories – cross border or not – is illustrated in the Guidance Note “Cross-Border Spatial Planning: A vision for a cross-border functional region” which is a Pilot Action of the Territorial Agenda. It demonstrates the applied methodology and discusses the implications of decarbonisation and sustainability for spatial planning and its cross-border dimension. Find out more about the pilot action here: https://territorialagenda.eu/pilot-actions/cross-border-spatial-planning/

Contact

Luxembourg in Transition: https://luxembourgintransition.lu/en/contact-2/

References

The European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation (EGTC) Alzette Belval plays a vital role in fostering collaboration between the French and Luxembourgish communities in the Alzette-Belval region. By facilitating cross-border projects and initiatives, the EGTC promotes sustainable development and positions Alzette-Belval as a transnational agglomeration.

Aim

Imagine a world where geographical borders do not limit collaboration between regions but facilitate it. That’s the objective of the EGTC Alzette Belval. By establishing a sustainable framework for cooperation and joint projects, it aims to bridge the administrative borders between Luxembourg and France to develop a shared vision for the future of Alzette Belval and stabilise the cross-border relationship. Additionally, the EGTC enables the transferring of local findings and perspectives to higher administrative levels and informs according regional, national or European institutions about the cross-border challenges.

Inauguration of the Cross-border Steel Curcuit in September 2022
Copyright: GECT ALZETTE BELVAL

Genesis and Composition

After first selective collaborative approaches between the French and Luxembourgish communities in the 1990s the need for a more effective and solid legal framework emerged. Therefore, the EGTC was established on March 8, 2013, with the support of the French and Luxembourgish governments and local authorities. It operates within the regulatory framework of the European Union, specifically the EGTC Regulation (No 1082/2006), which makes it a legal body.

The EGTC is compiled of a Luxembourgish delegation consisting of representatives from the state Luxembourg as well as from the four municipalities Esch-surAlzette, Mondercrange, Sanem and Schifflange. From the French side, representatives from the national level and Communauté de Communes du Pays-Haut Val d’Alzette, Région Grand Est, Conseil départemental de Meurthe-et-Moselle and Conseil départemental de la Moselle are involved.

Discovery of the ABACTIV pedestrian cycle track linking Micheville (F) and Belval (L) in September 2022. Copyright: GECT ALZETTE BELVAL

Activities, Measures, and Current Strategy (2021-2027)

A strategy is an essential instrument for an institutional body to function sustainably and effectively. The EGTC Alzette Belval developed a first strategy in 2014 for the timeframe until 2016. It was updated for the second phase 2017-2020 and the current version accounts for 2021-2027. It builds upon its previous successes and focuses on the following key areas:

  • Health
  • Mobility
  • Everyday life without borders and limitations
  • Alzette Belval: Maintenance and use of green landscapes
  • Alzette Belval: Shared and resilient future
  • Alzette Belval: Laboratory for education
  • Alzette Belval: Symbolic space of French-Luxembourgish collaboration

The EGTC Alzette Belval undertakes various measures and assumes roles to strengthen cross-border collaboration:

  • Information hub: The EGTC serves as a valuable information resource, providing updates on transborder initiatives, projects, and opportunities to the residents and institutions in the region.
  • Local link: Operating independently, the EGTC effectively represents the local interests of the Alzette-Belval community.
  • Facilitator: The EGTC facilitates exchange between stakeholders in the region, strengthening the cross-border network.
  • Project initiator: The EGTC takes the lead in developing and implementing transborder projects, often financed by European funds, e.g. through the Interreg Greater Region programme. These projects contribute to the region’s development and enhance cooperation between neighbouring communities.

A standout project within the EGTC’s portfolio is “Alzette Belval, vivons ensemble!”, which ran from 2014-2020. This initiative was developed to promote the concept of a cross-border agglomeration, aiming to cultivate a sense of belonging and regional identity. Through collaborations with several authorities from France and Luxembourg, the project facilitated cross-border projects in domains like sports, tourism, culture, and agriculture.

Games without borders between the youth centres of Belvaux (L) and Rédange (F) in summer 2022. Copyright: GECT ALZETTE BELVAL

Outlook

The EGTC Alzette Belval is dedicated to cross-border collaboration and sustainable development. By facilitating cooperation, implementing joint projects, and engaging local stakeholders, the EGTC strives to create a dynamic, interconnected, and resilient Alzette Belval that benefits residents, businesses, and institutions. Looking ahead to 2021-2027, the EGTC focuses on integrating cross-border projects and fostering a harmonious cross-border agglomeration. This strategy underscores the transformative power of collaboration, envisioning a future where borders no longer limit progress but instead facilitate collective development.

Contact

EGTC Alzette Belval: contact@gectalzettebelval.eu

References

During the first workshop organised by the CIPU office in 2023 and held on the 27th of June, the participants delved into the concept of multifunctionality in the city, focusing on different scales (building/parcel, district, city). They had the opportunity to explore various planning examples and engage in discussions about the obstacles, potentials, and instruments associated with multifunctional urban use.  

Copyright: Melt Studio, 2023

The day started off with an informative guided tour of the hosting location, the 1535° Creative Hub in the city of Differdange. The location symbolises creativity and innovation in Luxembourg. Established in 2013 by the city of Differdange, the Creative Hub got named after the melting temperature of iron at 1535°C, paying homage to the industrial heritage of the site and the whole city. Today it hosts creative and cultural start-ups, small- and medium-sized enterprises, artists, a co-working space as well as e.g. rentable music studios. More than just the physical space, the 1535° Creative Hub follows a community-driven approach, facilitating collaboration and sharing of expertise among its members. It functions as an open platform fostering synergies and networking, connecting actors from the cultural and creative industry and creating an open-minded environment for the sector.

Copyright: Melt Studio, 2023

After discovering the site, the workshop participants received input on functional mix in urban areas and its current relevance in Luxembourg. As a cross-cutting topic in the Master Programme for Spatial Planning 2023 (Programme Directeur de l’Amenagement du Territoire), it is primarily addressed under the objective of reducing soil artificialisation. In addition to that, the topic is considered under the objective of concentrating of different functions through e.g. creating Centres of development and attraction (Centres de développement et d’attraction). Furthermore, two examples developed during the Luxembourg in Transition Process (LiT) were presented, i. e. the densification strategy for the cross-border town Esch-sur-Alzette (LU) and Audun-le-Tiche (FR) as well as the plan for the commercial area Foetz to be transformed into a mixed-use zone. The local input was complemented with several examples from international multifunctional planning processes form Paris, Bern, Linz, Hamburg, Brussels and Anderlecht.

Copyright: Melt Studio, 2023

Finally, the participants delved into discussions on multifunctionality in urban spaces. The focus was on exploring the potential of integrating multiple functions within city structures on different scales (building/parcel, district, city). Through interactive sessions and planning examples, the workshop shed light on the obstacles, potentials, and instruments associated with multifunctional use in various contexts.

Working in groups, the participants explored multifunctionality in three key areas: commerce and services, production and manufacturing, and the creative sector and culture. These discussions considered the different existing scales, including the city, districts, and individual plots. The fourth group addressed the multifunctional use of housing in combination with schools, shopping centres, and industrial sites. These group sessions provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating different functions within urban structures. The results were then presented and discussed in plenum. The results of the discussions will be available on the CIPU Website soon.

Copyright: Melt Studio, 2023

By examining multifunctionality at different scales, the workshop encouraged innovative approaches to urban planning and development. The participants considered the potential of multifunctional spaces to (re-)vitalise communities, optimise resource utilisation, and promote sustainable development. The workshop held within the CIPU framework offered a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing, bringing together diverse perspectives from local and regional/national stakeholders as well as from thematic experts. It highlighted the importance of considering multifunctionality as a crucial aspect of contemporary city planning as well as which challenges need to be addressed by already existing and potential instruments.

Contact

References

The “National Platform for Urban Policy” (CIPU) enables cooperation between national, regional/intermunicipal and local level and initiates the debate around urban planning and development in Luxembourg. In addition to that, it raises awareness in the international context and informs about ongoing urban spatial planning trends and relevant topics in Luxembourg.

Aim

CIPU works on two levels: the European and the national level. While increasing awareness about spatial planning in Luxembourg in the international context, the platform simultaneously supports the cooperation between the local and the national level in Luxembourg. The central objective of CIPU has always been to provide a platform for exchange between the various urban policies and a multitude of municipal, national and European actors and enable cooperation – an objective which remains valid today. However, the practical topics have evolved across the years. The convention applies a focused and cooperative approach for its implementation.

Partnership

CIPU is based on an agreement between the Luxembourg Ministry of Energy and Spatial Planning, the Ministry of Housing and Ministry of Home Affairs as well as the cities of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Differdange and Dudelange. These partners constitute the core network of the CIPU. It is managed and organised by the CIPU which is run by Zeyen+Baumann in cooperation with Spatial Foresight. Depending on the subject, the platform’s activities are implemented in close cooperation with external partners, e.g. the Klima-Agence.

Patty Neu, November 2019: Presentation of CIPU publications during the press conference in November 2019, Claude Turmes, Minister of Energy and Spatial Planning and Henri Kox, Minister of Housing

Genesis

CIPU was developed in 2010 to support the integration of the recommendations for urban development from the European level in Luxembourgish spatial planning policy. In Luxembourg, the debate on spatial development since the beginning of the 2000s has been marked by the adoption of the second Master Programme for Spatial Planning (PDAT) in 2003, the Integrated Transport and Territorial Development Concept (IVL) in 2004 and the revision of the laws on urban (2004) and spatial planning (2013, 2018). CIPU initially aimed at transposing the objectives from the “Leipzig Charter on Sustainable European Cities” from 2007 at the national level while involving Luxembourgish municipalities in the implementation of a national urban policy, and – at the same time – considering the objectives of the PDAT which has a guiding function for national and local authorities.

Zeyen+Baumann, September 2021: CIPU excursion on Revitalising city centres in September 2021

During 2017-2021, a thematic focus was set for each year: In 2017/2018 the activities were focused on affordable housing. The year 2019 revolved around the topic of major urban development projects, the years 2020/2021 focused on both climate change adaptation in urban development and the revitalisation of inner cities. Furthermore, in the course of 2021, CIPU addressed the changing framework conditions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and work was carried out under the overarching title “City in Transition”. In addition to workshops and events, which were dedicated to concrete issues and enabled a direct exchange between the participants, the results of the discussions were processed in numerous publications for Luxembourgish and European planners. These were produced in close cooperation with the partners involved in the CIPU and the actors participating in the workshops. The CIPU documentation is thus a significant output that actively contributes to informing and developing the expertise of Luxembourgish planners. In order to finalise this phase of CIPU and to provide space for other important topics in the future, the “Journée de la Politique Urbaine” was organised with Luxembourgish planners and experts in January 2022. In a world café-like setting, the future perspectives for a “City in Transition” were elaborated as a summarizing statement of the CIPU 2020/2021.

Patty Neu, October 2019: CIPU workshop on innovative urban development projects in October 2019

Outlook

The main topics and activities for the next two years are described in an ambitious programme. It was developed in close cooperation with all involved partners by means of in-depth discussions about relevant topics. This action programme will cover the following topics:

  • multifunctional urban areas
  • energy concepts for large-scale urban projects
  • climate resilience and climate change impact in urban development
  • building cooperatives and alternative models for housing and working

Activities for 2023 were launched in May with the online lecture series (colloque) consisting of four presentations on energy concepts in the district “Roud Lëns”, the projects “NeiSchmelz” and “Wunne mat der Wooltz” as well as the energetic renovation of existing buildings in Differdange and a low-emission district in Strasbourg. Further steps in the implementation include interactive thematic workshops, an excursion and a concluding conference on the second thematic focus of multifunctional urban areas. For external communication, and awareness-raising, CIPU will inform about ongoing activities, publications and provide a collection of funding opportunities for municipalities on its website and social media. Furthermore, this blog will inform continuously about ongoing urban planning and development trends and projects in Luxembourg – so stay tuned during the next months.

Contact

Cellule nationale d’Information pour la Politique Urbaine (CIPU): cipu@zeyenbaumann.lu

References

CIPU website (German and French): https://site.cipu.lu/

CIPU blog (English): https://blog.cipu.lu/blog/

Conclusions of CIPU 2020/2021 (German): https://site.cipu.lu/images/2022-03_publications2022/CIPU_Conclusions%202020-2021_2022-03-30.pdf

The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, at the heart of Europe, continues to gain about 2% in population every year. The South of the country, the former industrial area, is growing especially rapidly, by a quarter since 2010 and in 2021 it hosted a third of all residents. Demand for housing has increased and is one of the most rapidly increasing expenses for Luxembourg households today.

In the already urbanised South, many large-scale development projects for new districts on industrial brownfields are being realised or are in the pipeline. This impacts the urban morphology of the area. Formerly geographically separated urban districts are now connected. But how can new districts interconnect urban fabrics, let alone urban functions? Differdange, the third largest city in Luxembourg, is home to such a brownfield project, ‘Plateau du Funiculaire’.

Rationale for action

The rapid development of the steel industry in Luxembourg during the 19th and 20th centuries created a unique urban tissue in the South. Housing was built around steel mills, as in other industrial areas. This resulted in large industrial zones being next to urban centres. In some cases, as in Differdange, these industrial zones are ‘wedges’, impermeable barriers that separate districts functionally.

Steel production in Luxembourg has declined over several crises and steel mills have reduced or entirely stopped production. Around 2000, some 25 hectares became available in the centre of Differdange. The ‘Plateau du Funiculaire’ was formerly a landfill for the adjacent steel mill.

Urban development concept of the ‘Plateau du Funiculaire’. The urban district of the development is shown in the upper part of the image with the new shopping centre ‘Opkorn’ in the upper right corner. The park along the Chiers is shown in the bottom half of the image. Source: Dewey+Muller, 2022.

Objective

The Plateau du Funiculaire functionally split several Differdange districts, so plans were drawn up to transform the brownfield site into a new urban district. From 2004, the city has developed urban concepts in cooperation with many local and national players. A new district, providing housing, offices and commercial areas is planned to connect the existing districts of Differdange, Oberkorn and Fousbann.

Some challenges had to be addressed in developing the urban concepts, including pollution of the area due to its use as landfill for the blast furnace. In addition, the river Chiers running through the area was planned to be renaturalised, to provide water retention and flood areas.

Time frame

The first scoping studies were realised as early as 2004. Since then, planning and construction has been ongoing with most of the district being finalised in 2020. Final construction during 2022 will complete the project on the former landfill.

Key players

The key player for developing the new area was the city of Differdange. The urban concept was developed with a Luxembourg planning office as well as an investor.

Looks and feels of the urban design of ‘Plateau du Funiculaire’. Source: LuxEnergy S.A., 2021.

Implementation steps and processes

Following the first plans to develop the district in 2000, initial research in 2004 assessed the landfill pollution. At the same time, the city of Differdange also outlined strategic objectives for the district. In 2005, a planning office proposed the look and feel of the new district as an urban concept. Development started in 2006 when the historic ‘Villa Hadir’, a former reception and administrative building for the blast furnace was refurbished. Plans to implement the urban concept were submitted for building permits.

A brand was created in 2007 to establish an urban identity to market the new district to future inhabitants, businesses and commerce. Work on the infrastructure started in 2009 and the first bricks for the residential buildings were laid in 2011. In the same year, the recreational park was finalised, allowing neighbourhood residents to get to know the new urban district. Around 2019, a late change to the project integrated a multi-functional tower, called ‘Gravity’, increasing the number of planned housing units from 650 to 728.

Required resources

The resources used are not known.

Results

After a bit more than a decade of construction, the new district will be finalised in 2022. Within 10 years, 728 housing units have been created, providing accommodation for more than 1,600 people. The district also features 15 km2 of office and retail area. A school, a section of Luxembourg university, public administrative offices and shops complement the housing so the district is a fully developed urban quarter of Differdange.

A new train station links the area to the national railway network. In addition bus connections as well as bike and pedestrian infrastructure connect the district both internally and to the surrounding areas.

To minimise soil sealing, ‘Plateau du Funiculaire’ is high density. Nevertheless, some polluted parts of the former landfill were sealed with an artificial layer of clay so surface rainwater can drain into the nearby river. Rainwater that penetrates polluted soil layers is collected separately for treatment.

Residential blocks in the ‘Plateau du Funiculaire’ district. Source: LuxEnergy S.A., 2021.

Experiences, success factors, risks

The relatively short construction period of ‘Plateau du Funiculaire’ highlights good preparation. Potential obstacles were identified, and solutions developed to avoid these.

The urban concepts and building permits provided planning security. The late modification to include a multi-functional tower in the district shows the project adapted to changing demands. Such flexibility is important as needs and requirements usually change for decade-long large-scale urban development projects.

Conclusions

‘Plateau du Funiculaire’ is a prime example of a successful large-scale brownfield development project. Such projects can close functional gaps between urban districts, offering new housing and commerce. In addition, interests from multiple public and private stakeholders can be addressed in one go. It also shows innovative approaches to issues like polluted soils that are frequently encountered in brownfield developments.

‘Plateau du Funiculaire’ also underlines that brownfield development offers much more freedom compared to developments in existing urban areas. Measures can be discussed before being realised in detail, helping to avoid conflicts.

In addition, brownfield development projects such as ‘Plateau du Funiculaire’ are testbeds for new approaches and technologies. The size of the district meant that planners faced challenges that could not be solved with existing planning approaches. An example is heating for the residential units where a centralised district heating system was planned as early as 2007 to reduce infrastructure costs and save energy.

Today the district offers a new face for Differdange and combines different urban functions in an optimal way. With multiple housing and commercial possibilities, ‘Plateau du Funiculaire’ will eventually become the new centre for the town.

Contacts

Urban technical service of Differdange: pag@differdange.lu

References

Dewey Muller, 2018: Plateau du Funiculaire project presentation (German): https://www.deweymuller.com/projekte/plateau-du-funiculaire/

Aurea Differdange, 2020: Project developer website (in French): https://www.aurea-differdange.lu/fr/localisation

Many firms and jobs in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg are centred around the capital city. Municipalities beyond Luxembourg city and its immediate surroundings have difficulties attracting firms and providing local employment. In addition, the many international companies in Luxembourg mean that prices for office space are challenging for start-ups.

The municipality of Dudelange in the south of the country has initiated ‘Innovation Hub Dudelange’. This incubator is a first step to supporting a new eco-innovation cluster within the municipality and providing affordable office space for start-ups.

Rationale for action

With an ever-increasing number of enterprises and jobs around the capital city, some recent developments have caused difficulties, including the many cross-border commuters working in Luxembourg city. Territories between Luxembourg city and the borders to Belgium, France and Germany have turned into a ‘drive-through country’. With a low municipal business tax rate, Luxembourg city continues to be an unrivalled player in the competition for businesses in the Grand Duchy, leaving little chance for other municipalities to attract firms.

Many international firms rent offices in Luxemburg city, so it has become difficult for start-ups to find affordable office space in the capital area. Start-ups often rely on cheap office space, so where space is expensive less of them can emerge.

Objective

The ‘Dudelange Innovation Hub’ aims to attract and support eco-technology start-ups that will help to establish a new economic cluster in the municipality and the country. Eco-technology approaches, practices and technologies developed in the new cluster can eventually be transferred to municipal departments to improve their services.

This will contribute to local economic development and new jobs. The incubator also aims to shape economic activities towards sustainable and ecological activities in the future ‘NeiSchmelz’ eco-district, a brownfield development within the municipality.

Time frame

The decision to set-up ‘Dudelange Innovation Hub’ in the ‘NeiSchmelz’ district was taken in July 2017. Two months later, the project was presented to the public. With support from several national players, implementation of facilities for the incubator started soon after. In July 2018, just one year after the decision was taken, the incubator opened its doors and welcomed the first enterprises. In 2019, the Incubator welcomed seven start-ups. Three start-ups cooperated closely with the municipality for testing and introducing their products and services in the city of Dudelange.

Key players

‘Innovation Hub Dudelange’ is an initiative of the municipality which chairs and administers the incubator. The provision of facilities and their operation is in cooperation with national players, namely Luxinnovation and Technoport S.A. This innovation agency and business incubator assist the municipality in selecting businesses. Another player is the ‘Fonds du Logement’, the national fund for housing, which owns the land.

Implementation steps and processes

The availability of financial and organisational resources required for the project and the limited number of players involved meant progress on ‘Innovation Hub Dudelange’ was quick. The concept was developed and approved in 2017 and the incubator started operation in July 2018.

Operation of the incubator is ensured by the municipality together with the national innovation agency and the national technology incubator. Start-ups looking to rent office space apply to the national innovation agency. After a pre-selection, a final choice is made by a selection committee of all three key players.

Once the start-ups are welcomed in the ‘Innovation Hub Dudelange’, they receive support in the form of contact building, fundraising and other services provided by the national innovation agency and the business incubator.

Required resources

The municipality rents office spaces from the national fund for housing ‘Fonds du Logement’. In addition to the rent, implementation of the facilities cost EUR 175,000, which was covered up to 80 % by the state.

Results

‘Innovation Hub Dudelange’ includes 14 furbished offices available to eco-technology start-ups. Additionally, the 500 square meters of newly built office space include conference rooms and shared facilities.

Companies can rent the offices for up to five years at a reduced rent. Start-ups less than two years old pay EUR 15 per square meter each month, all other companies pay EUR 20.

At the end of 2019, one year after inauguration, seven of the 14 workplaces were already let. The start-ups cover specialisations including smart irrigation systems, smart LED street lighting systems and active mapping of flood zones using innovative drone technology. Products of these eco-technology firms are transferred to the local administration and will improve the public services provided by the municipality.

Facilities of the ‘Innovation Hub Dudelange’. Source: Municipality of Dudelange, 2018.

Experiences, success factors, risks

‘Innovation Hub Dudelange’ is an innovative approach offering start-up support to a specific sector in a specific location. The instrument also helps to foster innovation in eco-technology. Although this is frequently in the media, it is not frequently addressed by entrepreneurs.

The instrument is also suitable for interim uses. While the eco-district is developing at full speed, ‘Innovation Hub Dudelange’ was based in a building of a steel mill that halted production in 2005. Occupation of the offices by start-ups is for up to five years, so winding-up the incubator should involve little effort when the services are no longer needed.

Conclusions

‘Innovation Hub Dudelange’ shows that relatively little finance is required to set-up a business incubator. Such initiatives are thus suitable for smaller municipalities with limited human and financial resources. Relying on support from national agencies, the municipality benefits from local economic development incentives from the start-ups as well as from the emerging eco-technology cluster, enabling innovations to be transferred to the municipal administration.  

Contact

Contact address: innovationhub@dudelange.lu

References

Municipality of Dudelange, 2019: ‘Innovation Hub – 3 startups réinventent la ville de demain avec Dudelange!’ (in French):

Innovation Hub – 3 startups réinventent la ville de demain avec Dudelange !

Luxinnovation, 2019: News – Innovation Hub – one year of supporting eco-technology: https://www.luxinnovation.lu/news/innovation-hub-one-year-of-supporting-eco-technology/