Be’er Sheva's Old City is set for major renewal after the Southern District Planning and Building Committee approved the preservation and redevelopment plan this week. The initiative aims to revitalize the historic district into a vibrant urban hub blending residential, cultural, tourism and commercial spaces.
Designed by Danny Lazar Architects, the plan covers roughly 760 dunams (about 188 acres) and allows for more than 5,000 new housing units. It designates 58 buildings with top-level preservation status, where additional construction rights will be prohibited. To encourage preservation, the plan provides incentives, including the transfer of building rights to other plots within the Old City or designated areas in Be’er Sheva’s master plan.
The plan distinguishes between areas with detailed zoning — where construction permits can be issued under the plan — and areas with only general planning, which will require additional detailed plans for permit approval. Once fully approved, developers will be able to submit permits for individual projects without further planning, significantly speeding up the process.
“The Old City is the historic heart of Be’er Sheva, and now it has the chance to become a unique business and cultural center that integrates living, culture, tourism, and commerce,” said attorney Oded Plus, chairman of the Southern District Committee. “The significant addition of housing units will bring new residents to the area and create a vibrant day-and-night life that restores the Old City’s prominence.”
Michal Maril, South District planner at the Planning Administration, said the plan aims to realize the Old City’s potential while preserving its unique historic fabric. The area is centrally located, accessible by public transport, and within walking distance of the train station. “The plan reflects the vision of urban renewal while balancing development with historical preservation. Its success will revitalize the historic urban fabric and improve quality of life,” she said.
Be’er Sheva Mayor Ruvik Danilovich said the plan, developed in partnership with the Israel Land Authority, is part of the city’s vision to transform the Old City into a bustling cultural, tourism and economic hub while maintaining its historic character. “Once the plan takes effect, construction permits—including additional residential units—can be advanced quickly. The Old City will experience a new wave of life, activity and growth, inviting investment and fulfilling the city’s vision,” he said.
Deputy Mayor Shlomi Numa and chair of the local committee added: “Approval of this plan is a historic moment for Be’er Sheva. It is the result of professional, in-depth work by the Engineering Administration, bringing an innovative plan to add more than 5,000 housing units alongside cultural, leisure, and tourism complexes. The plan combines accelerated development with incentives for preserving historic buildings, strengthening the unique character of the Old City and placing Be’er Sheva at the forefront of urban renewal in Israel.”