Terms like ‘tri-national’ and ‘multi-modal’ sometimes seem to be used gratuitously as investment promotion buzzwords, but in the case of Mulhouse, a market town in the Alsace region of France, it is no empty talk. The city has more multi-modal connectivity than many much larger cities could ever hope for. What is more, Mulhouse is right next to two foreign borders, and lies at the very heart of the European market.
Unique multi-modal location
Taking advantage of its location, Mulhouse is currently launching a project for a new business district, close to the centre of town and next to the central train station. The 'Vert & Eau' (Green & Water) district aims to attract service providers, in particular in knowledge-based sectors, including information and communicaton technology, consultation, financial planning and R&D. At the same time, ambitions run high to ensure that the development becomes a model for sustainable construction.
The development is to cover 23 hectares and will be built in two phases over the course of the next 10 to 15 years. It is centred around the train station, which in December 2011 will see the opening of a new direct TGV high-speed line to Lyon. The station is the point of departure for all modes of transport in Mulhouse and offers easy access to the commercial centres of France and several European destinations. In addition, the station is within easy reach of the unique tri-national Euroairport, serving over 100 international destinations.
The location gives the new business district a unique role, orienting it towards both Eastern and Southern Europe, while retaining a close proximity to the traditional markets of north-western Europe. The opening of the new TGV line also contributes to connect the French TGV network with the wider European rail systems. Mulhouse is extremely close to both the Swiss and German market, roughly 30 and 15 kms from respective borders, yet offers the far lower French rental prices.
The central location has a number of other advantages. Firstly, it benefits from the existing roster of nearby high-end hotels and shops, and even a Michelin starred restaurant, which central Mulhouse has to offer. Secondly, it ties the development to the numerous economic functions already established in town: administration, decision-making bodies, regional branches and support services for the development of business.
'Greeness' and water for urban development
The principal idea behind the development is to emphasise the green qualities of the urban environment of Mulhouse, which is broken up by water courses. The canal, which by the station currently runs under a parking lot, is to be uncovered. In addition, the fact that the canal joins the Rhine and Rhone rivers adds symbolic value. In terms of green, the development will be so in several senses of the word; green as in 'new', green with respect to ambitious targets for eco-friendly construction, and green in appearance, due to urban landscaping and planting.
The first building to be completed will house the Finnish company of Wärtsilä, a market leader in the manufacture of engines and propulsion systems in the marine and energy markets. A parking lot of 450 spaces is also under construction and should be ready for the opening of the new TGV line at the end of this year. A conference centre of 300 seats will be built directly by the station exit and the project will also include a new hotel and a number of new housing units.
In addition, the business district will regroup numerous serrvices in the town centre, including the sub-prefecture, central post office, the chamber of commerce and industry and the European centre of entreprises and innovation. The new premises for these institutions will be open for use by early 2012.
By 2025, the area will feature 50,000 sq. m. of office space, and an independent cluster of advanced service providers.
For more information on Mulhouse, please see our pages on Invest in Mulhouse Alsace.
