Jerusalem Approves Massive 45-Story Tower Project Despite Fierce Opposition
The Jerusalem District Planning Commission approved a major redevelopment of the Hesbon complex, featuring three 45-story towers and 950 apartments, despite hundreds of objections and strong criticism from Deputy Mayor Yossi Havilio.
Major Urban Renewal in Jerusalem's Core
The Jerusalem District Planning and Building Commission on Sunday approved a massive urban renewal project for the Hesbon complex in the heart of the city's downtown business district. The plan covers a 27-dunam site bounded by King George, Hillel, and Meir Shaham streets, and Sherman Park, directly adjacent to the approved Blue Line of the Jerusalem Light Rail.
The project includes the construction of approximately 950 housing units, of which about 200 will be designated for long-term rental, alongside hotel spaces, commercial and employment areas, student dormitories, and the preservation of historic buildings known as the "Anton Hesbon complex."
High-Rises and Public Infrastructure
The plan proposes the redevelopment of existing residential buildings into a mixed-use complex featuring three towers ranging from 41 to 45 stories, alongside low-rise construction. The historic structures will be preserved and integrated into hotel uses and a central public square connected to the surrounding streets via pedestrian pathways and inner courtyards.
Designed by the international architectural firm MVRDV (Netherlands) in collaboration with GEHL (Denmark) for the developer Even Israel, the project features:
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4,600 sq. m. for hotel use;
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14,000 sq. m. for commerce and employment;
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7,200 sq. m. for public facilities, including a public library facing the park, an indoor sports hall, and kindergartens;
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4,500 sq. m. for student dormitories (added following public objections);
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Comprehensive development of Sherman Park.
Additionally, the commission decided to preserve the historic "Pygmalion House" at the corner of King George and Meir Shaham streets, designed by architect Otto Hoffmann in the 1950s.
Fierce Opposition and Debate
The plan was approved despite hundreds of formal objections. Critics argue that the high-rise development will permanently damage the historic skyline of the city.
Jerusalem Deputy Mayor Yossi Havilio strongly condemned the decision:
"The coalition of the District Commission, the Jerusalem Municipality, and the developers continues to destroy the city. This is one of the worst plans ever approved in Jerusalem, and there are many. It severely damages the skyline near the Old City and harms Independence Park, deviating from all policy guidelines, destroying Jerusalem's unique character. I hope we can block its final approval in appeal committees and courts."
Conversely, Jerusalem District Planner Dan Keinan praised the initiative:
"The plan continues the momentum of renewal in Jerusalem's business district, offering architectural excellence that provides a new interpretation of the city center's historic fabric. It will create a vibrant hub of culture, commerce, employment, and housing, supported by high-quality pedestrian spaces and efficient public transit."
