Zagreb’s Gredelj industrial complex to become new urban centre

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)

The City of Zagreb has outlined plans to transform the former Gredelj industrial complex into a new urban centre, as part of a broader strategy to revitalise key areas of the Croatian capital.

According to Zagreb’s Development Plan, the former TŽV Gredelj site is one of five major urban regeneration projects currently being prepared.

Alongside Zagrepčanka, the Zagreb Fair, Sljeme Sesvete and Blok Badel, the redevelopment aims to breathe new life into historically important parts of the city.

The project focuses on reconnecting parts of Zagreb that have long been separated by railway infrastructure while creating new transport routes and introducing public, cultural and community spaces. Plans also include areas for housing and business development.

Deputy mayors Danijela Dolenec and Luka Korlaet presented details of the city’s vision and the interim use of the space during a media briefing.

Dolenec said the Gredelj area, together with Zagreb’s Main Railway Station, is envisioned as a future city centre and a modern transport hub comparable to those found in other European capitals.

“This is an exceptionally valuable space between Donji Grad and Trnje. Through amendments to the city’s General Urban Plan in September 2025, we unified the planning area and are developing it as a single city project because the future of Gredelj is closely tied to resolving the railway corridor,” Dolenec explained.

A key part of the planning process involves cooperation with Croatian Railways and the Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure. A study of the Zagreb railway junction, currently being carried out by HŽ Infrastructure, will determine the future layout of the railway lines and station capacity.

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)

These findings will form the basis for defining development programmes and launching an international architectural and urban design competition.

While long-term planning continues, the city has already begun preparing parts of the site for temporary public use.

Korlaet noted that several interventions are already underway to open up the space and improve connectivity within the city centre.

“We have started arranging open areas in Gredelj so the space can be used for leisure activities, events and improved pedestrian access between the Bus Station and the Main Railway Station,” Korlaet said.

Several changes have already been completed. Parking has been relocated to the western section of the complex along Trnjanska Road, a new access road with public lighting has been built, and 52 derelict buildings have been removed. The pedestrian underpass towards Trnjanska Road has also been renovated.

Work is currently underway on a new pedestrian promenade with lighting between Strojarska and Trnjanska streets, linking Zagreb’s main transport hubs. The entire area is also being gradually landscaped with new greenery to make it safer and more pleasant for residents and visitors.

The city also plans to preserve parts of the site’s industrial heritage. The historic Gredelj water tower will be restored as a permanent reminder of the complex’s industrial past.

Design work is also set to begin this year on the restoration of the Tesarna building, one of two protected structures within the complex. The building is expected to be repurposed as a music and concert venue.

City officials say the aim is to gradually open the Gredelj area to the public while the long-term development process continues.

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)

“Our goal is to make Gredelj accessible and allow people to use the space during the planning phase. We believe this approach will encourage cooperation among all stakeholders in shaping the future of this exceptionally valuable area,” Dolenec concluded.