New haredi city approved in the Negev

The first stage of Kassif, near Tel Arad, will house more than 50,000 haredim.

The National Planning and Building Commission's committee for principle planning matters today approved the establishment of the city of Kassif, which will house 50,000 haredim (ultra-orthodox) at Tel Arad in the Negev. The plan will now go to the National Commission for approval.

Ministry of Housing and Construction, under Minister Ariel Atias (Shas), initiated the plan. The first stage of Kassif involves 10,000 housing units on a 4,750-dunam (1,188-acre) site.

The planning document states that the land zoning and internal land use are based on the haredi lifestyle. The apartments will be fairly large, extensive land has been zoned for religious schools and religious cultural centers. Land has also been zoned for suitable employment for the haredi population.

Net population density balances the necessary apartment size for large haredi families in multistorey buildings without elevators, with these families' limited financial wherewithal. Average housing density will be four units per dunam (16 per acre), compared with seven apartments per dunam (28 per acre) for secular families.

Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on January 19, 2010

© Copyright of Globes Publisher Itonut (1983) Ltd. 2010

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