In collaboration with the Traffic and Public Transport Authority, Pontarius is leading the transformation of Selma Lagerlofs Torg in Gothenburg as part of the Bostad 2021 housing initiative.

“We want to transform this district into somewhere welcoming and secure, an optimistic place with continuity between past and present,” explains a spokesperson for Gothenburg’s Property Management Administration.

The first stage involves a new stretch of Backadalen, laying pipes for new housing, new traffic circulation in preparation for tramlines, and a new service road beside Litteraturgatan. The first stage is due for completion by summer 2018.

The project presents a number of challenges. Consideration must be given to avoiding disruption to the large amount of traffic using the area. During the project period, the square needs to be accessible to the public so that trade does not suffer during construction. This places considerable demands on coordination between the City authorities, contractor, developer and third parties so that day-to-day business in and around the area can function as usual.

Ground conditions around the square present another challenge, due to the loose clay that requires specific measures in order to install pipes and lay roads to a good standard. This requires careful planning and implementation, as well as geotechnical expertise.