The legal basis for the planning process has been in place since the referendum on 14 June 2026. On that occasion, voters approved the necessary amendment to the zoning plan, thereby paving the way for the next stages of planning for the site near the current children’s zoo on the banks of the Aare.
The CHF 2.5 million grant that has now been approved will fund the project planning for the first phase. This involves replacing the almost 100-year-old farm building with a new structure on the edge of the zoo. According to the city, this phase is due to be carried out from 2031, with the facility scheduled to open in 2033.
More than just a replacement building
The farm building alone is not enough. A second phase will involve a new main entrance on the banks of the Aare, the transformation of the children’s zoo into a family zoo, and the renaturation of the Dalmazibach stream, which is currently partially culverted. The new access point is intended to connect the lower-lying Aare area directly with the higher-lying zoo area, creating step-free access.
Politically, one issue remains unresolved. At the request of the SVP, a further assessment is to be carried out to determine whether the lift providing access to the upper level can be built outside the ticketed area. This would mean it could be used not only by zoo visitors but by the general public as well.
Costs and funding remain a sensitive issue
The city estimates the total cost of the project at between 24 and 33 million Swiss francs. According to current plans, 7 to 8 million Swiss francs of this must be covered by third-party funding, such as donations and sponsorship, for the animal enclosures. For the property and site development department, the project is therefore not just a construction issue, but also a matter of financing.
The City Council approved the project planning grant by 66 votes to 1, with four abstentions. Following the first construction phase, the Aare entrance, the family zoo and the restoration of the stream are expected to follow from 2033 onwards.
