Solar quarter on Saalbahnhofstrasse: City Council confirms development plan
The city of Jena is pressing ahead with the development of the planned solar quarter on Saalbahnhofstraße. At its meeting on 17.12.2025, the city council confirmed the draft plan for the project-related development plan VBB-J 47 and its public presentation.
"With the solar quarter, a modern and sustainable residential area is to be created in the immediate vicinity of the city center that combines urban planning quality, climate protection and social needs," says Dirk Lange, Head of Urban Development and Environment. "At the same time, urgently needed living space is to be created, in particular barrier-free and senior-friendly apartments."
Public display and participation
The draft plan, the explanatory statement and the expert report will be available online from mid-January to mid-February 2026 and will also be on public display at the urban planning department. The specialist authorities will be involved at the same time. An information event is planned as a prelude, at which the project team and administration will present the project and answer questions. The exact date will be announced.
In spring 2023, citizens and authorities had the opportunity to get involved at an early stage. 18 comments from the public and 31 responses from public agencies were incorporated into the revision. The qualified draft now responds more strongly to comments on cityscape, traffic and climate resilience and forms the basis for the upcoming council decision.
Urban quarter with a focus on greenery
The area between Damenviertel, Am Anger and Spittelplatz is to be developed into a modern residential quarter with commercial space on the first floor and a broad mix of apartments. A striking high point on Spittelplatz strengthens the urban entrance to the quarter.
The central element is a green square with around ten trees - a new place for residents to spend time. Extensive green roofs also improve the microclimate and create green retreats on the second level.
Utilization concept adapted: Focus on barrier-free small apartments
The originally planned use on the first floor - day care and assisted living - cannot be realized due to an operator withdrawal, as no replacement was found despite an intensive search. Instead, the design now provides for around 70 small, barrier-free residential units, which are intended to enable senior-friendly living close to home in an inner-city environment.
Mobility and energy: looking to the future
The plans focus on sustainable mobility options. In addition to a single-storey underground garage, four car-sharing parking spaces are planned. The building envelope is designed so that photovoltaic modules can be easily integrated. Light-colored facades and wood-colored accents provide a modern look and support the overall energy concept.