A Model for Collaborative and Inclusive Urban Development
– We’ve been working on the Økern Sentrum plan for five years, and we’re now pleased that Oslo’s Planning and Building Agency (PBE) has submitted the case for political review, says Thomas Holth, Project Director representing the owners Steen & Strøm and Storebrand. The plan addresses urgent needs for housing and central urban functions such as retail, culture, business, and hospitality, and is a key component in realizing Oslo’s adopted urban expansion strategy – Strategic Plan for Hovinbyen.
A Model Project for Collaboration and Participation
– It’s positive that the Planning and Building Agency largely agrees with and recommends the developer’s approach, including the placement and design of buildings and public spaces, urban-repairing infrastructure, and a new blue-green structure with reopened streams, says Holth. We commend the agency for maintaining a constructive dialogue throughout the development phase. We’ve also prioritized strong involvement from stakeholders connected to what will become the new Økern Sentrum.
More Housing, Hotel and Student Accommodation
– That said, we find it unfortunate that PBE, in the final phase of the planning process, introduced an alternative proposal that removes the homes with the highest living quality, reduces housing diversity by maintaining the apartment size norm, and significantly limits opportunities for establishing hotels and alternative housing types. The building plots closest to the station, including the high-rise block, are well-suited for student housing, which could contribute to a broader and more diverse age and social profile – and help kick-start urban life in the area, says Holth.
– We believe in dialogue and now look forward to following the political process related to the project, Holth concludes.
Key Facts About Økern Sentrum
Compared to the current situation, the plan will contribute:
- 3,000–4,000 new jobs
- 1,500 new homes
- Hotel/student housing
- 45,000 m² for retail, dining, services, and culture
- 700 meters of reopened streams
- 30,000 m² of public squares and blue-green spaces
Nature Experiences in an Urban Landscape
Økern Sentrum will offer blue-green qualities in an urban context, enhancing and connecting to the broader ecological and recreational networks in the area.
Local and Regional Cultural Investment
Økern Sentrum is set to become an attractive destination for Oslo’s cultural life – both for cultural production and performances. The cultural investment will be inclusive and have a strong local focus.
Urban Life & Experiences
Økern will bring life to Økern and Hovinbyen by offering new commercial and non-commercial meeting places and experiences – from food culture to retail and more.