Energy location with future potential
The former Legler site in Diesbach is being given a new perspective. Hochdruckkraftwerk Diesbach AG is taking over the site and planning sustainable development. The municipality of Glarus Süd is making a strategic investment and securing land reserves. A project with potential for energy, housing and regional development.
With the purchase of the former Legler site by Hochdruckkraftwerk Diesbach AG and the simultaneous participation of the municipality of Glarus Süd, a new chapter has begun for the traditional factory site in Glarnerland. The operator of the local hydroelectric power plant has secured the site, including the power plant centre. At the same time, the municipality is acquiring agricultural land from the previous owner and will become the largest shareholder with a 40% stake.
Energy meets site development
The acquisition not only serves to preserve the historic power plant, but also opens up new opportunities for long-term site development. “We can offer areas ranging from 50 to several 1,000 square metres,” says Chairman of the Board of Directors Weber-Thedy.
The municipality of Glarus Süd has secured two seats on the Board of Directors and an important land reserve of almost 30,000 square metres of agricultural land, which is earmarked for replacement measures or ecological compensation areas. The municipality is thus creating space for future developments.
Long-term perspective with interim utilisation
The potential of the Legler site is undisputed, but a new use takes time and requires careful planning. The aim is a mixed-use development with residential and office space that fits in with the landscape and the municipality. The first steps towards realisation are not expected before the next ten years.
Until then, the site will be put to sensible interim use. The large halls will be rented out as storage space. They can be divided up flexibly, even if they are only suitable for certain purposes due to structural restrictions.
Sustainability as a guiding principle
The high-pressure power plant is focussing on environmentally friendly energy production and will renovate the plant to the latest standards in 2025. Earlier discussions about the expansion were postponed in favour of a sensitive approach to the landscape, but the roar of the Diesbach Falls is to be preserved.
A boost for the Glarus region
The acquisition of the Legler site is more than just a change of ownership. It is an example of forward-looking site development, supported by local energy production, public participation and a long-term perspective. The municipality of Glarus Süd is actively committed to the development of the site and at the same time minimises the risk of a prominent property falling into disrepair.
The combination of energy infrastructure, property development and public involvement makes the project a beacon for the region and a role model for comparable sites in Switzerland.