#Japan #Urban Development #Sekisui Chemical #Ebetsu #Ebetsu City

New Community Development Project in Ebetsu City

In October, Sekisui Chemical's Housing Company, led by President Masahide Yoshida, commenced an exciting new development in the abandoned city-owned land in Wakabacho, Ebetsu City, Hokkaido. Covering approximately 27,900 square meters, this initiative aims to promote permanent residency and regional revitalization through a comprehensive plan combining residential and utility facilities.

This project falls under the broader umbrella of the "SEKISUI Safe & Sound Project," reflecting the company’s dedication to both customer and business value through ESG management initiatives. With the backdrop of declining population and an aging demographic in Ebetsu, this project contributes to a compact urban development centered around the station, promoting the city's attractiveness for families.

The initiative also arrives amid the successful completion of the redevelopment project surrounding Nopporo Station, which has significantly enhanced convenience in the area. Ebetsu has ranked within the top 20 nationwide for net migration of young children (under 14 years) for seven consecutive years since 2018, indicating its appeal among child-rearing families.

Located just an 8-minute walk from the JR Hakodate Main Line Nopporo Station, the new development will feature 69 single-family plots and 20 units of collective rental housing, along with commercial facilities and a community clubhouse. The design will leverage IoT technologies to ensure a safe, secure living environment suitable for residents ranging from young families to the elderly, promoting both convenience and regional vitality.

This project is grounded in the tripartite partnership agreement established in February 2024 among the city of Ebetsu, Hokkaido Railways, and the Sapporo Cooperative Association, aimed at fostering an appealing urban environment. Through this initiative, the team looks forward to enhancing the attractiveness of Ebetsu for families while supporting their integration into the community.

Background and Development Process

In March 2024, the city of Ebetsu conducted a competitive proposal process for city-owned land in Wakabacho. Sekisui's proposal received high praise for its alignment with the goals of the call, showcasing innovative and concrete ideas, and was selected as the candidate for the land transaction in October of that year, leading to the signing of the sale agreement in November.

Following in-depth discussions regarding the development plan with the city, the necessary permissions have just been approved. This project marks the first time for the Hokkaido Prefectural Office to authorize a landscape agreement, setting guidelines for creating an attractive neighborhood within the single-family housing sector while ensuring aesthetic appeal.

Key Features of the Development Plan

1. A Safe and Disaster-Resilient Community for Families

To establish a disaster-resistant foundation, the project will incorporate stormwater retention facilities, using Sekisui’s innovative Cross-Wave products to enhance the region's life lines. IoT technology will be employed to bolster safety and security measures, ensuring residents, especially families, can live with peace of mind. Solar power systems and storage batteries will come as standard in the homes, making them environmentally friendly and resilient while also reducing residents' utility expenses and the overall CO2 emissions in the community.

2. Comprehensive Urban Development Enhancing Local Convenience

The project will feature a drugstore and convenience store, responding to community needs for improved daily convenience. A clubhouse will be available for all generations, facilitating events that foster community attachment and support long-term residency. It will offer various housing options, including economic single-family homes and affordable collective rental units, providing flexibility for families to transition as their life plans evolve.

3. Sustaining Community Appeal Through Sustainability

Community management will be conducted in collaboration with the residents through the specialized app "NiSUMU" and Sekisui's town management company. Expansion of management committee membership to include homeowners, rental property owners, and commercial operators will promote robust community involvement. Continuous funding for community operations and long-term repairs will be secured, alleviating responsibilities from residents and ensuring community sustainability. Additionally, regional contributions towards local kindergartens and daycare centers will advance the area’s development.

Development Overview

• - Location: 2-1 Wakaba-cho, Ebetsu City, Hokkaido, and other plots
• - Transportation: Approximately 8 minutes on foot from JR Hakodate Main Line Nopporo Station
• - Site Area: 27,929.80 square meters
• - Construction Schedule: Scheduled from October 2025 to September 2026

Through this significant undertaking, Sekisui Chemical is poised to contribute to the development of a vibrant, sustainable community attractive for families, fostering lifelong ties for its residents.