Hlemm Square redevelopment moves closer to completion

Redevelopment of Hlemm Square in Reykjavík is well advanced, with the first sections expected to be ready soon, mbl.is reports. The status of the construction and design was presented to Reykjavík City’s environment and planning department on October 21.

Work near Norðurpóll, a building that is to be moved back onto the square close to its original location, is nearing completion. The area in front of the building is being designed for accessible use and outdoor dining. The foundation for a play hall beside Norðurpóll is in place, while the steel structures for the stage and hall are due to go into production. Play equipment is also on its way to Iceland. A fence will separate the hall from Norðurpóll to help keep children safe while playing.

A bicycle building will be installed beside the Gasstöðin building on Rauðarárstígur. The single-storey structure will have a two-level bicycle storage system. The city plans to invite potential operators to take part in a market survey.

Hlemmur food hall, on the western part of the square, will get a new appearance. Waste collection facilities will be improved, and luggage storage for tourists will be added. The plans also include accessible entrances to buildings, seating and greenery. The clock tower that once stood beside Hlemmur’s bus stop will be put back, and the Klyfjahesturinn statue has already been moved to a better location.

A structure for Reykjavík City and Veitur, housing control systems for utility lines and snow melting, will also be built on the square and clad in polished steel. Work by the city, Betri samgöngur and Veitur on the northern part of the square is expected to begin soon.