Geneva clears exceptional demolition

New building plan Rue des Cordiers (c) Nicoles Zermatten – Ville de Genève

In a rare move, the City of Geneva has approved the demolition of an apartment building dating back to the 1870s.

The city’s Heritage Department says it normally prioritizes renovation and enhancements of old buildings- but the one on the Rue des Cordiers in Eaux-Vives has been deemed unsavable.

It’s in an unsafe state and is hopelessly outdated. 

It fails to meet basic health and safety requirements - the toilets are on the balcony as they were added after construction. 

The plans to demolish were finalized ten years ago – but appeals by locals have delayed the process. It can now go ahead after the last appeal at the Federal Court failed.

The new building will have 11 apartments – 10 of them will be for social housing.

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