Construction has commenced on a creative industries cluster at the site of the former tram depot located at the intersection of Gogol and Baitursynov streets in Almaty. At the same time, the city continues to implement its Light Rail Transit (LRT) project and plans to construct a new tram depot in the Alatau District, El.kz reports.
Former tram depot to be reconstructed into a Creative Industries Hub
The Almaty City Administration (Akimat) has announced the launch of a major urban redevelopment project on the site of the former tram depot. The project envisages the establishment of a creative industries cluster with a total floor area of approximately 32,000 square metres.
The development will provide modern infrastructure for professionals and businesses operating in the creative economy. The complex will include a concert hall, multifunctional public event spaces, studios and workshops, showrooms for Kazakhstani designers, a contemporary art gallery, an atrium for citywide events, and office space for creative entrepreneurs.
The surrounding area will also undergo comprehensive landscaping and public realm improvements. Planned amenities include an amphitheatre, an outdoor performance stage, a park area, and children’s playgrounds, all of which will be accessible to residents and visitors.
Project completed all statutory approval procedures
According to the City Administration, project preparation required a considerable period due to the completion of the full range of statutory urban planning, regulatory, and expert review procedures. The project received approval from the Urban Planning Council and a positive conclusion from the State Expert Review.
Demolition of the obsolete structures has now been completed, and the project has entered the active construction phase. According to the municipal authorities, the initiative represents a comprehensive redevelopment of the site, introducing a new functional designation focused on advancing the creative economy and strengthening the city’s urban infrastructure.
Tram services will remain part of the city’s public transport system
Alongside the development of the new public space, Almaty continues to modernise its rail-based public transport network. The City Administration reiterated that the city has not abandoned its tram system and has already commenced construction of the first Light Rail Transit (LRT) line.
The LRT alignment will follow Abylai Khan Avenue, continue westward along Tole Bi Street, and then proceed north along Momyshuly Street. To support the operation and maintenance of the rolling stock, a new tram depot will be constructed in the Industrial Zone of the Alatau District.
Implementation of these projects will enable the city to simultaneously preserve and further develop its rail-based public transport system while giving new purpose to a site that has remained unused for its original function for many years.
