Confignon Residents to Vote on Future of Cherpines District

Residents of Confignon, Geneva, are set to vote on March 8th on the future development of the Cherpines district, a project fifteen years in the making. The referendum challenges a municipal pre-notice supporting the overall localized neighborhood plan (PLQ) for the area.

Background and Project Scope

In 2011, the people of Geneva agreed to declassify 58 hectares of agricultural land between Confignon and Plan-les-Ouates to address the region’s housing shortage. The resulting project envisions a mixed-use development encompassing 3,700 housing units. Currently, 1,000 units are under construction in the Rolliet district of Plan-les-Ouates.

Of the remaining 2,700 units planned for the Cherpines district, 300 are slated for Plan-les-Ouates and 2,400 for Confignon. Both municipalities initially gave a favorable pre-notice to the PLQ, which outlines the broad development guidelines. However, this decision triggered a referendum in Confignon.

Concerns Raised by Opponents

The referendum committee, comprising five associations, the PLR (Liberal Party), and the political group Demain Confignon, has voiced concerns about the financial implications of the project for the municipality of 4,570 inhabitants. They argue that there are insufficient guarantees regarding subsidies and that future tax revenues will not adequately cover the district’s operating costs.

Opponents also criticize the proposed high-density development, comparable to that of central Geneva, and the emphasis on automobile traffic within the PLQ. Environmental impacts, particularly on the Aire valley, are another key concern.

Potential for Renegotiation

Referendum opponents hope that a successful “no” vote will prompt a renegotiation of the project, particularly with a new state councilor in charge of the Territorial Department. They believe that Nicolas Walder, a Green party member, has committed to reopening discussions if the referendum passes.

Supporters’ Perspective

Proponents of the PLQ emphasize that it is the result of fifteen years of collaboration with the canton and Plan-les-Ouates, and that it has been adapted to address Confignon’s concerns. They highlight that the favorable notice is accompanied by approximately fifteen conditions related to financing, mobility, and the protection of natural spaces.

Supporters believe that a “yes” vote will allow Confignon to oversee and control the development of the detailed PLQ, which will govern the location, size, and layout of buildings within the district.

Future Development Plans

Beyond the planned housing units for 2035, the future Cherpines district is expected to include primary and post-compulsory secondary schools, a nursery, sports and cultural facilities, and employment opportunities.