Zemora Committee Approves 110 Micro-Apartments Near Mazkeret Batya Station

The Zemora regional planning and building committee approved a mixed-use development beside Mazkeret Batya railway station on Sunday, combining up to 110 micro-apartments with employment and commercial space. The plan covers plot 300, a site of approximately eight dunams, and adds housing to land previously designated for commerce and employment. The approved layout provides for three eight-storey buildings above two commercial podium storeys, with one building for housing and two for employment. The apartments will average about 45 square metres. A public square of approximately 1,400 square metres will connect with the station precinct, while about 300 square metres of built space will be reserved for council and public use. Acting committee chair Ruti Schwartz called it "an important plan," highlighting the combination of homes, workplaces and commerce near rail transport and the pedestrian public space. The committee said the process from receiving the plan to approval took nine months. Council head and committee treasurer Gabi Gaon said the development could generate employment and municipal revenue to support services and infrastructure for residents. The proposal follows the municipality's comprehensive plan and a policy document for the station district approved in April 2022. The site's previous planning framework allowed three above-ground storeys; the new approval increases building rights and introduces residential use. The reports of the decision did not give a construction start date or completion timetable.