Is there public debate on the quality of the place?

In 2007, various administrative agencies of the City of Berne began planning the renovation of Breitenrainplatz and the tram tracks. In the same year, the city announced a competition for the redesign of the square, which was won by a planning consortium of engineers, architects and landscape architects. In June 2015, residents approved a referendum to secure funding for implementation, with 63 per cent voting in favour. Objections delayed the planning, pushing completion of the project to the summer of 2023.

Does the place serve its purpose?

The central axis of the Breitenrain quarter has been upgraded from the Kursaal to Guisanplatz: Viktoriaplatz has been modified into a roundabout junction, and a 30 km/h speed limit is in place for much of the route. The tram tracks have been rebuilt, the roads resurfaced and the utility lines replaced. In short, Breitenrainplatz has been transformed into a meeting place for the local community. To achieve this, the traffic area was reduced and the paved surfaces were made permeable.

Does the place foster sustainable mobility?

Following the refurbishment, all tram and bus stops now provide barrier-free access, making it easier for everyone to use public transport. There is more space for pedestrians and cyclists. The 30 km/h speed limit also allows children and the elderly to cross the square and neighbourhood streets more safely.

Have public and private resources been used responsibly?

Although various objections have delayed the planning and increased its costs, the municipal project loan of 56.1 million Swiss francs should prove to be sufficient, based on current knowledge, as the project was implemented without problems and thus more cheaply than budgeted. However, the final loan accounting is still pending. The total costs of the project are shared by the City of Berne, the public transport operator BERNMOBIL (tram infrastructure) and the public utility company Energie Wasser Bern (for the rehabilitation of utility lines).

Does the place hinder the separation of different social classes?

Breitenrainplatz, previously dominated by traffic, has been transformed into a meeting place for the public. A gravel-covered area with a variety of seating and a water basin has been created in the south of the square. Newly planted trees provide shade and enhance the attractiveness of the area as a place to linger. Early in the morning on sunny days, you can see parents with children and individuals sitting in the sun, reading or sipping a coffee.

Do the green spaces enhance the quality of the place?

The newly planted trees on Breitenrainplatz and surrounding the roundabout reduce the dominance of the traffic. Especially in a few years’ time, when the trees have grown and their crowns are larger, they will form a luminous, leafy canopy that provides shade. The permeable surfaces are also effective against the heat and allow water to seep away.

Does the place contribute to social cohesion?

Situated to the north of the Old Town, Breitenrain is an attractive place where many residents choose to live. The mid-19th-century houses, together with the newer buildings and the many mature trees, form a beautiful urban quarter. Now that the work on Breitenrainplatz has been completed, the space bustles with activity. Twice a week, the neighbourhood market is held here, bringing together food producers and local residents.

Does the place make people feel at ease?

Breitenrainplatz is lined with shops, artisan workshops, cafes and restaurants. The historic tram shelter and kiosk still stand in the centre of the waiting island. In sunny weather, people sit outside and the square teems with activity. From here, several streets lead into the neighbourhood, which is characterised by its historic houses and old, tall trees.