The 61.16-hectare site straddles the Esch-sur-Alzette and Schifflange communes. Talks to convert the former steel mill--operated by ArcelorMittal--began in 2016, shortly after a company decision to end production there.

But it will take another 20 years for construction to be complete, the government said in a press release. Half of the site will be turned into housing--of which 30% will be considered affordable--with offices, schools, and small businesses and shops also planned for the project.

Similar to Belval--the site of Luxembourg's university--the project will aim to uphold the site’s industrial heritage in its architectural design. The project will be managed by Agora, which also oversees the Belval development. Danish firms Cobe Architects, Urban Agency and Urban Creators will provide the concept--with a focus on sustainability--to be realised with Luxembourg engineering firm Luxplan.

The government had previously brought in Danish experts from urban design firm Gehl to reimagine the Kirchberg business district into a more liveable space for residents, not just office employees.

It now wants Esch-Schifflange to be a “smart city” from the get-go, built sustainably, close to nature and well-connected in terms of mobility. The high-speed tram planned to connect Luxembourg City with Esch-sur-Alzette will stop in the new development, which will also be connected to the country’s bus network.