Urban Renewal Plan Approved for Sderot's Palmach Complex

The Southern District Planning and Building Commission has approved for deposit an urban renewal plan for the Palmach complex in central Sderot. The plan, submitted by the National Urban Renewal Authority and the Sderot Municipality, covers approximately 32 dunams (about 8 acres) and aims to construct 515 housing units, replacing 139 existing apartments. Three three-story residential buildings with 139 units will be demolished to make way for ten new buildings containing 515 apartments, some designated for affordable housing.

The project includes the development of an active urban frontage along Menachem Begin and Herzl streets, integrating commercial spaces and public uses. Approximately 1,800 square meters of commercial space are planned for the street level. A central public space is envisioned, featuring two public buildings, open areas, pedestrian pathways, seating zones, playgrounds, and landscaping, all situated above a covered parking lot and connected to ground level.

The plan allocates about 2.5 dunams for public needs, including a kindergarten in the complex's center and a second plot for city-wide needs integrated into the commercial facade on Menachem Begin street. In total, around 1,200 square meters of public buildings are planned. The plan also involves extending Palmach Street to connect with Menachem Begin Boulevard, enhancing the complex's connectivity to main roads and the existing urban fabric.

Michal Meril, Southern District Planner at the Planning Administration, stated that this is a significant first step in urban renewal for Sderot, expanding development options with a diverse mix of housing, commerce, employment, and public spaces, creating a quality public area and strengthening the urban network. Oded Flus, Chairman of the Southern District Planning and Building Commission, called the approval a milestone for developing and strengthening Sderot's old city, addressing growing housing demand by renewing the old city, adding units, and developing quality urban space to improve residents' quality of life.