Government to consider the development concept of Minsk’s satellite cities
In Minsk’s suburbs
Satellite-suburbs are to gain their own distinct characteristics, and facilities (like mini-cities) to provide a real alternative to living in the heart of the capital. The Deputy Architecture and Construction Minister, Dmitry Semenkevich, explains that each will be planned for comfort and attractiveness, with low-rise buildings as well as tower blocks. The provision of employment opportunities is also in hand, with industrial enterprises to be located nearby. Some enterprises currently situated in Minsk are to move out, to avoid unnecessary travelling.
Development plans include such details as the volume of electric and drainage lines required, street layout and costs involved, as well as the allocation of land lots. Laying power and sewerage lines alone may cost trillions of Belarusian Roubles, making Rudensk the foremost choice as Minsk’s major satellite-city — instead of previously announced Smolevichi. “Major development has already begun in Rudensk and there are no bans on construction works,” Mr. Semenkevich explains.
Land inside the ring road (under construction) will undergo serious change, being included in a new general plan for Minsk’s development by the Architecture and Construction Ministry. Districts between the first and second ring roads have been developed by regional structures but residents primarily work at existing Minsk enterprises. “From the point of view of quality of life, these territories lag behind Minsk greatly,” Mr. Semenkevich admits. “With this in mind, we insist on having a single zone adjoining the second ring road, forming the foundation for developing transport and engineering infrastructure.”
