Afula Approves First Major Urban Renewal Project, Adding Hundreds of Apartments
The Northern District Planning and Building Commission has approved for deposit a significant urban renewal plan in Afula, marking the city's first "Tafanuy-Binui" (demolish-and-build) project. The "Hadasim Complex Urban Renewal" plan, initiated by Rachmani Group, will transform a 5.6-dunam site in the city's old center, replacing six existing buildings with 31 housing units with a 25-story tower and two 10-story buildings, totaling 229 new apartments. Approximately 46 of these units will be small apartments under 80 square meters. The project also includes a public building, underground parking, and a new urban plaza with commercial spaces facing the city's cultural hall, aiming to revitalize the old city center.
Officials hailed the plan as a milestone for Afula and urban renewal in Israel. Dekla Adi Peretz, Northern District planner at the Planning Administration, stated the project will renew and strengthen buildings while creating a quality living environment and significant public space. Boaz Yosef, chairman of the Northern District Planning and Building Commission, added that the plan will bring quality, modern construction to the old city center, improving public spaces and residents' quality of life, and expressed hope for more such projects in Afula.
Afula's housing prices currently range from NIS 17,000-19,000 per square meter. A three-room apartment averages around NIS 1.45 million, while a four-room apartment in new neighborhoods costs an average of NIS 2-2.2 million. The plan aligns with Afula's master plan, designating the city center and Hativa Tish'a axis for development, integrating intensive urban construction with public spaces, commerce, and public transport accessibility.
In related news, the Jerusalem District Commission recently approved a large plan for 300 permanent rental housing units in Givat Mordechai, Jerusalem. Following objections, one of the two planned 25-story towers was canceled, with the allocated space to become a public park.
