Fight for living space: Hietzingen residents resist the increase!

Fight for living space: Hietzingen residents resist the increase!

The discussion about the planned extension of the residential complex at Fleschgasse 15-17 in Hietzing is once again agitating the minds of residents. Buwog has presented the draft, which states that the existing building will be raised by additional floors. Many neighbors are alarmed because a similar project failed in 2013 due to violent protests and a signature campaign.

The new rezoning process is currently raising concerns again. One of the most critical voices comes from residents who point out the planned building height: This should be almost twice as high as on the opposite east side of Fleschgasse. This could not only affect the lighting conditions, but also the quality of life for residents. In addition, the biodiversity in the inner courtyard, especially the bats that reside there, could also be at risk due to the increase.

Criticism from the district council

The reactions of the political representation are clear: all factions of the Hietzing district council spoke out against the increase as early as December 2024. Many residents are wondering why an empty office building at Hietzinger Kai 101-105, which is 47 meters high, cannot be used for residential purposes. This remains excluded from real estate use due to inadequate infrastructure. Buwog, on the other hand, emphasizes that the new planning meets all of the City of Vienna's requirements for densification.

New living space is urgently needed

The city of Vienna sees population growth as a reason for the need to create new living space. One focus is on densification in places with sufficient infrastructure. The planned changes include a new building height of around 18 meters, which is about one meter below the maximum permitted height. Around 42 additional apartments will be accessible via two new staircases with elevators.

Sustainable measures and greening

The planned accompanying measures deserve particular mention. The prefabricated construction is intended to reduce noise and dust during construction work. Renovations and a switch to sustainable energy systems are also planned. New bicycle parking spaces and the improvement of open spaces are also being sought. A green flat roof will also create a habitat for insects, which will serve as a food source for bats.

Overall, it remains to be seen how the local council will decide on the new zoning after weighing up all the opinions. Will the project be pursued in this form or will the residents' concerns be given way? It looks like the issue will remain open for a long time and the discussions will certainly continue.

More information about

Densification strategies in Vienna can be found at daniel-weidler.de.