The Neighborhood Can Start Building

The Republic of Slovenia's housing fund has received final approval to begin constructing a new residential neighborhood along the Savica River in Kranj, marking a major step forward in addressing the region’s growing need for affordable housing. The municipal government of Kranj confirmed that the integrated building permit for the project has become legally binding, allowing the housing fund to proceed with plans to build 269 public rental apartments. This will make Kranj one of the largest new residential developments in recent decades. The housing fund expects to issue tender documentation for construction and supervision contracts soon, with work set to start by the end of this year, pending successful procurement processes and completion of the first phase of infrastructure improvements on the site. The project involves two main phases. The first phase includes the construction of a new bridge over the Savica near former Planika, reconstruction of the Savska Street, and the building of connecting roads and utility infrastructure. Municipal officials stated that work is progressing according to schedule, with the completion of the first phase, comprising the bridge and road connections on both sides, as well as sewage system installation, expected by autumn this year. The second phase will focus on building a road with retaining walls on the left bank of the Savica and all necessary supporting infrastructure, which is anticipated to be completed by summer next year. The total value of the bridge and road reconstruction project is approximately nine million euros. The city council has secured 3.63 million euros in national and European co-financing for the project and anticipates additional funding through regional development agreements. These financial arrangements are critical to ensuring the project stays on track and meets its goals within budget constraints. Kranj Mayor Matjaž Rakovec emphasized that the legally binding building permit represents a key milestone for the project, which aims to provide quality public rental housing for many young families, individuals, and elderly residents. He added that the municipality will ensure all necessary conditions for the area's development, particularly focusing on the construction of new traffic and utility infrastructure. The city council has been actively working on the project, including the construction of the new bridge over the Savica, the reconstruction of Savska Street, and the development of connecting roads and utility networks. Officials noted that the work is proceeding in accordance with the planned timeline, with the first phase of the project expected to be completed by the end of this year. The second phase, involving the construction of a road with retaining walls on the left bank of the Savica and all required infrastructure, is scheduled to be finished by the summer of next year. The housing fund expects to obtain the final building permits for both phases of the residential complex by early 2029. This timeline depends on the success of the public procurement process for construction and the completion of the initial stage of infrastructure and traffic planning on the site. The project is part of broader efforts to address housing shortages and improve urban living conditions in Kranj, aligning with national strategies aimed at sustainable development and improved quality of life for residents.