Jerusalem Approves Major Urban Renewal Project with Three 43-Story Towers
The Jerusalem District Planning Commission approved the Hesbon urban renewal project. The plan features three 43-story towers, 950 apartments, including 200 rentals, student dorms, and the preservation of historic landmarks.
The Jerusalem District Planning and Building Commission has officially approved a major urban renewal project in the heart of Jerusalem, known as the Hesbon complex. The project spans approximately 27 dunams (6.7 acres) bounded by King George, Hillel, and Meir Shaham streets, and Sherman Park, directly adjacent to the approved Blue Line of the Jerusalem Light Rail.
Currently, the site contains commercial, office, and residential buildings, including several historic structures known as the "Anton Hesbon compound." However, a significant portion of the area has functioned for years as a neglected backyard of the city center, consisting of open parking lots and spaces inaccessible to the public.
High-Rises and Historic Preservation
The approved plan introduces intensive urban renewal, replacing some existing residential structures with a vibrant mixed-use development. The project will feature three towers rising between 41 and 43 stories, alongside low-rise perimeter construction integrating residential, commercial, employment, and hotel uses.
The historic buildings within the compound will be preserved and repurposed for hotel use, surrounding a spacious public plaza in the heart of the block. This plaza will connect to the surrounding streets via pedestrian pathways, alleys, and inner courtyards. Additionally, the plan includes the comprehensive development of Sherman Park, a public library facing the park level, and an indoor sports hall.
Housing, Rentals, and Student Dormitories
The master plan includes approximately 950 housing units, of which about 200 will be designated for long-term rental for a period of 15 years. It also allocates 4,600 square meters for hotel space, 14,000 square meters for commerce and offices, and 7,200 square meters for public facilities, including the library, sports hall, and kindergartens.
Following public objection hearings, the commission decided to add 4,500 square meters for student dormitories and approved the preservation of the historic "Pygmalion House" at the corner of King George and Meir Shaham streets, designed by architect Otto Hoffmann in the 1950s.
Jerusalem District Planner at the Planning Administration, Architect Dan Keenan, stated:
"This is a landmark plan that continues the renewal momentum of Jerusalem's central business district. It offers architectural and design excellence, providing a fresh interpretation of the city center's historic fabric. The project is set to create a significant hub of vibrant culture, commerce, employment, hospitality, and housing, alongside student dorms and rental apartments, all while prioritizing high-quality pedestrian spaces supported by efficient public transit."
The project was designed by the internationally renowned Dutch architectural firm MVRDV, in collaboration with the Danish firm GEHL. The plan was submitted by Even Israel Ltd.
