On Wednesday, a contract signing ceremony was held to celebrate the appointment of Foster + Partners to develop a ‘vision masterplan’ for the new Luanda Aerotropolis, which will serve as a regional hub in Central Africa. The masterplan will align with Angola’s future aspirations and projected economic growth, while responding to the country’s heritage and unique ecological landscape. The practice will commence a 14-week programme that sets out a phased approach for the project.
Gerard Evenden, Head of Studio, Foster + Partners, said: “We are delighted to be part of this transformative project for Angola, which will create a thriving new community around the existing airport. Our masterplan will set out a long-term and sustainable approach that anticipates the country’s future growth.”
Ricardo Viegas d’Abreu, Minister of Transport of Angola, highlighted the importance of the project and the signing of this contract, adding: “We must offer those who visit and work with us excellent conditions upon arrival and during their stay. Building an airport city, where everyone can visit, work and enjoy themselves in comfort, represents a milestone for our country, open to the outside world, and available to work with everyone who has the capacity to grow with and in our country”. Ricardo Viegas d'Abreu also emphasised the fact that this project “could enhance the creation of public-private partnerships (PPP) and a sustainable model of growth and urban mobility based on the operation of an international airport, the population flow it generates, and its relationship with the business community. A model that, integrating the airport city with the current city of Luanda, contributes to the growth and dynamism of our capital and transforms it into a global city where Luanda residents can live, work and engage”. For the Minister of Transport of Angola, “selecting Foster + Partners represents deciding on a partner with proven competence and reputation, capable of designing and implementing a project that all Angolans will be proud of.”
Located on a 13,000-hectare site – approximately 50 kilometres inland of downtown Luanda – the new aerotropolis will surround the recently completed Dr. Antonio Agostinho Neto International Airport. The mixed-use project will include retail, residential, and hospitality, as well as medical services, training centres, cultural and educational buildings, amongst other typologies. Technology and renewable energy will be the driving forces behind the masterplan.
The practice’s vision for the project will form part of the upcoming government roadshow that aims to attract international investment and development partners.
