Thun North forms a new urban neighbourhood
With the workshop process for the Thun North core area, a key development project in the Bernese Oberland is taking shape. Three teams have shown how a new district could be created around the future S-Bahn station, characterised by open space, identity and future potential.
The cantonal development centre Thun North is considered the most important business location in the Bernese Oberland and is one of the four premium locations in the canton of Bern. The area between Selve and Lerchenfeld, which is still heavily characterised by military use, is to be gradually opened up for new uses. This will create space for working, living and mobility, linked by a new public access route.
Workshop process as a milestone
In 2025, the city of Thun conducted a workshop process together with Armasuisse Immobilien, Ruag Real Estate AG and BLS. It marked an important milestone in the transformation of the area. The task was to identify ways in which the site could develop into a modern, networked urban district. In addition to the future Thun Nord S-Bahn station, the creation of a lively urban environment is at the centre of the project.
Open spaces as a basic framework
The planning considerations focus on open spaces as a connecting element between the closed military areas to the south of the site. The three interdisciplinary teams developed several approaches in dialogue with experts, owners and interest groups. Despite different concepts, a common core emerged. The open space, Aare, Alpenbrücke and Allmendstrasse form the supporting framework to which future neighbourhood structures will connect. The new railway station also makes reference to the existing buildings. The striking shed roof hall will serve as the backbone and identity carrier.
From idea to realisation
The next phase is now starting. In a so-called synthesis, the city, owners and project partners are working on further refining the open space and neighbourhood structure. This forms the basis for the next, harmonised plans, such as infrastructure projects or the necessary planning instruments. Thun North is thus taking shape as a forward-looking neighbourhood that combines economic strength and spatial quality.