Žižkov City Prague: Green Light for a New District with 3,000 Apartments and Cultural Spaces
The transformation of the former Žižkov freight station has received final approval, paving the way for one of the largest urban regeneration projects in the Czech capital. The new district, called Žižkov City Prague, will combine residential buildings, green spaces, schools, commercial areas, and cultural venues, designed to accommodate around 20,000 people. The project, promoted by Sekyra Group in cooperation with Czech Railways, promises to radically change the face of the district.
The area covers approximately 10 hectares in the southern part of the former freight yard, which has been inactive since 2002. Here, 3,000 modern apartments will be built alongside shops, offices, and sports and cultural facilities. The vision behind Žižkov City Prague is to create a sustainable and livable neighborhood that harmoniously integrates new infrastructure with the needs of long-standing residents. Construction is expected to start between 2027 and 2028, with completion planned over the course of twenty years and a total investment exceeding CZK 25 billion.
One of the key elements of the project is the preservation of the historic station building, constructed between 1934 and 1937 and declared a cultural monument in 2013. Saved from demolition thanks to the efforts of citizens and activists, the building will be transformed into a public hub with shops, studios, and community centers, becoming the cultural heart of Žižkov City Prague. At the same time, plans include five kindergartens, two elementary schools for more than 1,300 students, recreational zones, and extensive green areas.
Another central point concerns mobility: the project aims to minimize car traffic by promoting more sustainable transport solutions and funding the reconstruction of U Nákladového nádraží, the street that runsalongside the future district. About 95% of the area will be allocated for residential use, while the remainder will host services and public amenities. This approach seeks to develop a balanced urban environment designed for people rather than cars, in line with Europe’s most advanced urban regeneration trends.
This transformation was made possible by the largest amendment to Prague’s zoning plan ever approved by the city council. The decision marks a historic step for the city, which with Žižkov City Prague is preparing for a more modern, inclusive, and sustainable future. Sekyra Group, already behind other major developments such as Smíchov City and Rohan City, further strengthens its role in reshaping the urban landscape of the Czech capital.
Beyond its ambitious scale, Žižkov City Prague represents a forward-looking model of how cities can grow while preserving heritage and fostering sustainability. The redevelopment of the former freight station is not just about building new apartments in Žižkov but also about creating a vibrant residential district in Prague that balances modern infrastructure with community-oriented living. Unlike traditional large-scale housing projects, Žižkov City Prague integrates cultural venues, schools, parks, and public services into its design from the outset, ensuring that residents will benefit from a complete urban ecosystem rather than isolated housing blocks. This approach highlights Prague’s commitment to urban regeneration that respects both the past and the needs of future generations. By preserving the historic functionalist station building and repurposing it into a cultural hub, the project bridges tradition and innovation, offering a unique identity to the district. For families considering living in Žižkov Prague, the development promises a safe, green, and inclusive environment supported by schools, kindergartens, and recreational areas. Moreover, the emphasis on sustainable mobility—reducing car dependency and improving public transport—aligns with global trends toward eco-friendly urban development. In this sense, Žižkov City Prague is set to become not only a new neighborhood but also a benchmark for new sustainable city planning across all Europe.
https://www.expats.cz/czech-news/article/old-zizkov-freight-station-gets-green-light-to-transform-into-new-district
