Bonum one step closer to goal in Ullernåsen in Oslo

– Although processing of the case has taken longer than expected, we are pleased that the plan has now been sent to the city hall for processing, says Bjørn Wikan at Bonum.

Bonum is now one step closer to realising its ambitious redevelopment project at Silurveien 45 by Ullernåsen metro station, the company announces in a press release.

EiendomsWatch has previously written about the company's plans for transformation and extension of the old telephone exchange and establishment of around 20 new flats.

Planning case for political processing

The Planning and Building Agency has now sent the case for political processing, and project manager at Bonum, Bjørn Wikan, is positive:

– Although processing of the case has taken longer than expected, we are pleased that the plan has now been sent to the city hall for processing. Two limited consultations for minor changes to the project have affected progress negatively, but we are now pleased that the case is approaching a decision, says Wikan.

The planning proposal that has now been submitted is, according to Bonum, largely the same as previously presented. However, after consultation with the Planning and Building Agency (PBE), some changes have been made following public inspection. Among other things, the footprint of the existing telephone exchange is preserved in its entirety, a larger part of the planning area is zoned as open space, and it is clearly defined where a footpath can be established in the conservation-worthy green area at the rear of the property.

PBE is positive

PBE recommends the proposal and has given positive feedback on the planned project, especially with regard to transformation, the climate perspective and proximity to the metro.

Wikan highlights qualities such as good public transport coverage, ceiling height, views and shared facilities in the building.

– The transformation gives us extra space for, for example, common rooms, a spacious stairwell with skylight, bicycle parking with workshop, extra storage space, and not least some completely unique and attractive flats, he says.

Chief Executive Officer of Bonum, Anders Bakken Eriksen, now hopes for swift processing at the city hall.

– This is a non-controversial case that meets the municipality's goals for rail-based development and sustainable reuse of existing buildings. The project is a good example of gentle densification in already built-up areas, a type of project it is essential to increase the scope of if Oslo is to manage to keep pace with housing needs. We at Bonum have worked on optimising existing centrally located buildings for a number of years and are investing heavily in this going forward. Not only is it sensible in terms of climate footprint, but it also provides exciting architectural qualities, says Eriksen.