Cross Works leads the New Tashkent masterplan in Uzbekistan, focusing on sustainable urban development and a data-rich digital twin.
Contents
Project Overview
The New Tashkent masterplan, also known as ‘Yangi Toshkent’ in Uzbek, is a large-scale urban development project spearheaded by London-based design and technology firm Cross Works. This ambitious plan aims to expand Tashkent eastward by 25,000 hectares, creating a ‘twin city’ with a capacity of 2.5 million people between the Chirchiq and Karasu Rivers. This expansion will address the growing population needs of Tashkent over the coming decades and establish a new model for sustainable urban development.
Planning and Design
Cross Works won an international competition in early 2023 to become the lead consultant for this mega-project. Their responsibilities include overseeing the architectural and masterplanning, creating a digital twin system, and managing a diverse team of sub-consultants, from landscape architects and engineers to economists and real estate advisors. District 1 of the masterplan, encompassing about 6,000 hectares, has received government approval for its detailed plan, and with groundwork already underway, the project is rapidly progressing towards the construction drawing phase.
Sustainable Development and Community Focus
The New Tashkent masterplan prioritizes the creation of mixed-use neighborhoods, or ‘mahalla’ in Uzbek, fostering a sense of community and promoting sustainable living. These neighborhoods will feature a variety of residential typologies and amenities within a 5-10 minute walking distance, encouraging residents to embrace alternative modes of transportation and reduce reliance on private vehicles. The plan also emphasizes green spaces, with 20% of the total land area dedicated to parks and a network of canals drawing water from the northern mountains.
Digital Twin and Public Engagement
To enhance project management, transparency, and public engagement, Cross Works has developed a ‘Digital Twin’ for New Tashkent. This online platform provides a data-rich replica of the masterplan, including detailed plans, 2D and 3D urban analyses, interactive design guidelines, and immersive experiences like virtual walk-throughs. The Digital Twin serves as a central hub for project information and will be continuously updated throughout the project’s lifecycle, fostering communication and collaboration among stakeholders and the public.
Architectural Vision
Cross Works is dedicated to maintaining the design integrity of the New Tashkent masterplan throughout its implementation. To achieve this, they are developing urban design and architectural guidelines for District 1, collaborating with both international and local design firms to create a unique architectural identity for the new city. This collaborative approach will ensure a cohesive and harmonious built environment that reflects the vision of the masterplan.
Project Information:
Architects: Cross Works
Area: 250,000,000 sqm
Project Year: 2024
Project Location: Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Main Materials: Concrete, steel, glass
Project Type: masterplan
Photographer: Cross Works
