The development plan for Frederiksberg Hospital in Copenhagen has been approved
Frederiksberg Municipal Council unanimously approved the development plan "Growing the New from the Old" on Monday, December 4th. The plan establishes the framework for the future development of the Frederiksberg Hospital area after the municipality takes over following the relocation of hospital functions to Bispebjerg.
EFFEKT, in collaboration with Arkitema, COWI, Gemeinschaft, and Creator Projects, created the development plan based on the original vision for the area's development. Tina Lund Højgaard, Partner and Architect from EFFEKT, says:
"It has been fantastic to develop a plan that sets such a high standard for the inherent qualities of the site. The goal is for the project to serve as a green beacon in terms of urban nature, communities, and climate."
The plan has evolved through a process involving extensive public participation and emphasizes that the transformation should be rooted in the existing buildings and trees. Eighty percent of the buildings and ninety percent of the trees are to be preserved. The vision is for the area to become a green, mixed urban district with various types of housing and a sizable park. Consideration will be given to cyclists and pedestrians, with parking facilities planned underground. A Health Corridor will continue the health legacy with various health activities, benefitting the entire city.
Mayor Michael Vindfeldt (S) expresses satisfaction with the plan:
"This plan has emerged through thorough dialogue with citizens and users, and the ongoing dialogue with citizens continues. This is a project for the entire city, as reflected in the plan. It sets the direction for development in a way that demonstrates maximum respect for history and the diverse wishes of citizens, while outlining the contours of a modern and exciting area focused on sustainability, community, and experiences. My commendation goes to all seven parties in the municipal council for unanimously adopting such a comprehensive and visionary plan."
Frederiksberg Municipality now has a strong, flexible, and robust development plan in place for when it assumes control of the hospital grounds, even if it happens gradually in relation to the relocation of hospital functions. Planning the next steps will occur in close collaboration and coordination with the Capital Region. The development plan is now set to be translated into reality, according to Lone Loklindt (RV), Chair of Frederiksberg Municipality's City and Business Strategic Committee and Vice Mayor:
"Phase 0 is already underway with several temporary activities, such as lending small buildings for art installations and for the Sustainable Assembly House, where people gather to work on green transition projects. The next phase, 'Life from Day 1,' begins when hospital functions move out. It's important for us that the area remains vibrant and relevant to citizens throughout the lengthy transformation period, which could extend over 10 to 15 years. Therefore, we will work diligently to prepare for the realization of the plan, as well as with events and temporary activities – always in close dialogue with citizens."