Hornbach Zurich: Flood protection and revitalisation

In the Seefeld district of Zurich, the Hornbach between Zollikerstrasse and Lake Zurich has both a flood protection deficit and ecological deficits. The aim of the project is to provide flood protection and restore longitudinal connectivity for the aquatic fauna between the ravine and Lake Zurich, particularly for the lake trout. To this end, the stream between Dufourstrasse and Bellerivestrasse will be opened up and embankments will be built instead of bank walls, which will be planted with vegetation typical of the site. This will perform an important ecological function, but will also make a significant contribution to enhancing the quality of life and closing the natural water cycle. The project also includes the replacement of the concrete bed with a structured gravel bed with sleepers, the widening of the channel, the construction of cascades and the new construction of bridges. The planning takes into account the high urban planning requirements and is carried out in close cooperation with a landscape architect.

The space required for the revitalization will be created by accompanying traffic planning measures such as speed reductions, one-way traffic and the conversion of parking spaces.