Gandria residents resist Constantin’s luxury apartment plan

Opposition is growing in Gandria to a plan by construction entrepreneur and football club owner Christian Constantin to build 14 luxury apartments. Residents have proposed other uses for the plot, SRF reports.

Architect Flavia Sutter, who spends much of her time in the village, said the appearance of markers outlining the proposed buildings came as a shock. She took several days to consider whether the project was the right use for the plot.

Shiva Jada Rajau, who grew up in Lugano and campaigns for a liveable Gandria, said the project did not fit the village. She pointed to its historic centre and connection to nature, and warned against buildings that feel like a “mini Monte Carlo” and have no architectural connection to the landscape.

Not everyone in Gandria opposes the development. Some residents hope the new apartments will bring fresh energy and attract new inhabitants. Rajau and her supporters say new buildings are not needed and have instead proposed a public park, the Giardino della Salute. They say Gandria lacks a public place for people to meet, for children to spend time and for visitors to enjoy the village.

Filippo Lombardi, the Lugano city councillor responsible for urban development, called the park proposal unrealistic. He said the city had little money and was trying to sell some plots, while the steep land was unsuitable for a park.

Lombardi said Constantin’s plans were also controversial within his department, and the city’s urban development commission was critical of the project. But he noted that the plot is designated for construction. If development were permanently blocked, he said, the canton or the city of Lugano could have to pay several million francs.

In an interview with RSI, Constantin said he did not believe projects should be blocked in areas designated for construction. “Every generation has to create something good, something better,” he said, adding that not everything should be blocked.

The Ticino Heritage Protection Association has also filed an objection. Its president, Tiziano Fontana, said the association would try to stop the construction and urge municipal and cantonal authorities to protect Gandria.

The canton of Ticino must now decide whether to uphold the objections or approve the project. If it is approved, the heritage association and Gandria residents are expected to appeal.