A major metropolitan area with a population in the millions could rise on the remnants of former industrial sites within Moscow. This is not speculation but part of a strategic plan highlighted by the capital’s leadership as reported by TASS in reference to the mayor and his team.
Currently, those abandoned industrial zones are the focus of comprehensive development programs designed to revitalize the land through integrated development projects across regions. The aim is to repurpose vast stretches of underused space into thriving urban districts that blend living, working, and leisure in a single, interconnected urban fabric.
In his remarks, the mayor emphasized the potential scale of these efforts, noting that Moscow already covers approximately 4 thousand hectares of such territories under the integrated development initiatives. The projection underscores the possibility of creating a city capable of accommodating about two million residents on these lands, illustrating a bold reimagining of what the capital can become.
According to the declaration, these efforts could yield approximately 60 million square meters of real estate within the redeveloped zones. The vision promises a complete upgrade of the local environment, from high-quality housing to attractive employment opportunities, along with parks, squares, and all the amenities required for vibrant urban life. The goal is to replace the existing depressed areas with districts that offer a high quality of life and robust economic activity.
As part of the broader urban renewal narrative, Moscow is advancing large-scale transportation and infrastructure improvements. Late updates report that in 2022 plans included the opening of ten stations for the Moscow Central Diameters MCD in collaboration with Russian Railways. The schedule envisaged three new MCD stations and seven relocated or upgraded stations becoming operational within the system. The expansion aligns with ongoing reconstruction efforts, including a major project at Meshcherskaya station along the Kyiv direction, underscoring the city’s commitment to creating a seamless, high-capacity transit network that supports widespread development and accessibility for residents and businesses alike.
These initiatives reflect a coordinated approach to urban renewal, where land use, housing, business activity, and transit are designed to reinforce one another. By converting industrial wastelands into mixed-use districts, Moscow aims to provide modern living environments with first-rate residences, well-paid jobs, and inviting public spaces. The overarching strategy positions the capital as a model for sustainable urban growth, balancing density, mobility, and quality of life while preserving the region’s economic vitality and cultural character. The ongoing work relies on careful planning, investment, and collaboration among municipal authorities, federal agencies, and private partners to realize the envisioned transformation over time.