The timeline for residents to move into the “Sunny City” apartments in Nikšić is currently unclear, as a shopping center needs to be built at the site near the Steel Plant first.
Elektroprivreda (EPCG) recently stated that the local government is expected to announce a public call for the land where the shopping center will be constructed. Once this is established, EPCG will begin building apartments for its employees.
On September 18 of last year, EPCG’s Board Chairman, Milutin Đukanović, and Nikšić’s Mayor, Marko Kovačević, signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the “Sunny City” project. They explained that the acquisition of the Steel Plant and surrounding land—approximately 400,000 square meters—has created the conditions necessary to advance the project. Urban planning solutions indicate that up to 1,000 housing units, along with essential facilities, could be constructed on the site.
The “Sunny City” project is a collaboration between EPCG and the Nikšić municipality, which will soon issue a public call for the land needed for the shopping center. Among the interested investors are well-known brands and retail chains, including Big Fashion and Lidl. Once the shopping center is completed, EPCG plans to develop residential units for its employees. The start of construction will depend on several factors, including planning and obtaining the necessary permits. After all preparatory activities are finalized and approvals are granted, EPCG will begin construction, funded by annual allocations for the housing fund defined by the company.
“Vijesti” has asked about the conceptual urban and architectural design that will guide the “Sunny City” project, when the public call for the main project will be announced, the project’s total value, the sources of funding for EPCG, and when main construction work might commence.
So far, a competition for the conceptual architectural design has been completed, aimed at gathering innovative solutions to improve urban development and enhance living quality in Nikšić.
Last year, Đukanović mentioned that EPCG allocates two million euros annually to address housing for employees, which he deemed insufficient. He noted that the “Sunny City” project would significantly increase the number of available apartments without requiring additional funding. Employees from local and state institutions will also have the opportunity to obtain housing through this project.
The state energy company has published a FAQ section on its website regarding the project, clarifying that the residential units in the “Sunny City” complex are not reserved for any specific group, and the implementation will depend on market interest and conditions.
In response to questions about the railway, the company clarified that its removal is not planned, as it is essential for the industrial complex in the area undergoing revitalization. Relocating the railway is also not feasible due to the significant costs involved. While interventions such as underpasses can be planned, eliminating the railway is not an option, as the area remains designated for industrial storage, making the rail connection a competitive advantage for the economic complex.
The project aims to create new jobs and reduce the outflow of young residents from Nikšić.
The company anticipates that the project will boost employment in Nikšić, both during the construction phase and afterward, through the operation of business and social facilities.
Improvements in local conditions, along with new job opportunities, are expected to help retain young people in Nikšić.
The new mixed-use residential complex will be built in accordance with regulations, and since it will develop a previously neglected area, the impacts on the environment and residents are expected to be predominantly positive.
