Plans are advancing rapidly for the Metzeschmelz housing project, set on a former industrial site spanning over 63 hectares between Esch and Schifflange. The ambitious development is expected to eventually accommodate up to 10,000 residents, offering sustainable living, working, and leisure opportunities all in one location. If progress continues as scheduled, the first residents could move in by early 2032.
The area, once dominated by the towering blast furnaces of the former ARBED steelworks, is being cleared to make way for an entirely new neighbourhood. While construction is slated to begin between 2028 and 2029, the project is in a preparatory phase.
Marie-Josée Vidal, president of development company AGORA, which is overseeing the planning and execution of the project, explained that this initial phase is crucial, focusing on sanitation concepts and the district's development plans. As of now, the focus lies on cleaning and decontaminating the site, a crucial step in transforming industrial land for residential use.
Despite the sweeping changes, the project aims to honour the site’s industrial heritage. AGORA has emphasised that “key elements” of the old steelworks will be retained to ensure “the contrast between past and future becomes a feature of everyday life” in the new district.
The redevelopment promises to completely transform the site. New approaches to mobility and energy efficiency are central to the project, with AGORA describing Metzeschmelz as a “unique” residential area to date. Minister of Housing Claude Meisch has highlighted that many symbolic features from the region’s industrial past will be integrated into the district’s design, reflecting both its history and future ambitions.
“We are building for the future of the southern region here, just as we did previously with Belval. There is huge potential not only for housing but also for work, leisure, and community life,” said Minister Meisch. “Metzeschmelz will bring added value not just for this site, but also for the existing neighbourhoods in both Schifflange and Esch, strengthening connections between the two municipalities.”
After consultations with residents from the neighbouring municipalities, the plans for Metzeschmelz prioritise a largely car-free daily life. The development will be structured around so-called “mobility hubs”, dedicated centres for sustainable transport, located around the site, enabling easy movement without private vehicles.
In line with many modern urban developments, the project envisions a self-contained neighbourhood where residents can meet most daily needs locally. The plans include not only shops and leisure facilities, but also schools, nurseries, and childcare centres, ensuring that the Metzeschmelz district can function as a vibrant, independent community.
