Penta Launches Redevelopment of Žižkov Former Freight Station: A New District for 20,000 Residents
Final approval granted for Penta’s Žižkov project
Investment group Penta has obtained the final building permit and is set to begin construction in the area of the former Žižkov freight station in Prague. The breakthrough follows the approval in 2024 of the largest amendment to the city’s zoning plan, which officially opened the site to urban development. Penta acquired the land from Czech Railways (České dráhy) in 2025, exercising a repurchase right in place since 2019. With all permits now secured, construction work is expected to start in the coming months.
First phase: 280 apartments and a large urban park
The first phase of the project includes the construction of four residential buildings with a total of 280 apartments, along with local services, shops and medical facilities. At the heart of the complex, a one-hectare central park with water features will be created, designed as a space for relaxation and community life for both residents and the wider public. Overall, Penta’s development will deliver 554 housing units, making a substantial contribution to Prague’s residential supply.
International architecture for a new urban model
The architectural design was developed by Dutch studio Benthem Crouwel in cooperation with Czech firm ra15. The buildings are conceived as a central structure with two curved “wings” extending outward, enclosing a semi-private courtyard that hosts the central park. “The Žižkov freight station project has been designed in phases from the very beginning. We have now obtained final approval for the first phase in the northern part of the site,” said Rudolf Vacek, Head of Construction at Penta Real Estate. According to the architects, the project aims to combine the advantages of urban living with direct access to nature.
A strategic area at the heart of Prague’s transformation
The Žižkov freight station area is currently one of Prague’s most significant urban regeneration zones. After decades of limited use, the site has attracted strong interest from major real estate developers. Central Group is already the most advanced, having completed residential buildings along the station’s edges. Sekyra Group is also planning to begin construction between 2027 and 2028, while other landowners in the area include Finep and My Park. The concentration of projects highlights the strategic importance of the location.
A new neighborhood for up to 20,000 residents
Once fully developed, the former Žižkov freight station will become a new urban district capable of accommodating up to 20,000 residents. In addition to housing, the master plan includes five new kindergartens, two primary schools, public parks and social infrastructure. Penta will also contribute to the reconstruction or expansion of a local primary school. The first phase of the project is scheduled for completion in 2028, marking a major milestone in the transformation of one of Prague’s largest brownfield sites into a modern residential and urban hub.
Source: e15
