Easy Reads

People in Klybeck

Dominated by smoking chimneys and thundering factories, Klybeck was long the epitome of civilizational progress and prosperity. Today, the district is facing an exciting future – a large-scale urban renewal project is underway, which is set to transform the erstwhile industrial hub into a vibrant urban landscape. But how are the people of Klybeck dealing with the impending transformation? We accompanied them around their district and listened to their stories.

Published on 01/01/2020

Photos by Adriano A. Biondo

Piero Bonfiglio, Senior Operator Upstream Processing DS Bioproduction Basel (BDSS)
“When I came back in 2013, I was a bit startled. It was all so empty. There were only three buildings that were still operating. Nothing like before. It did hurt a little bit.”

Iso Lengwiler, Head QC DS Bioproduction BDSS
“It didn’t smell exactly like in a brewery, but somewhat similar.”

Katrin Oser, Project Manager in the Basel Department of Construction and Transport
“The new tram route will be a development driver.”

Beat Aeberhard, Head of Urban Planning and Architecture in the Basel Department of Construction and Transport
“We are building a new urban quarter in the middle of a densely populated environment with a wide variety of transport and ecological requirements.”

Matthias Kastner, Head of Pilot Plant Solids
“When I started working here in 2006, the chimneys were still smoking, and the dye production was still operational. There was really a lot of steam around.”

Eva Altmann, Associate Director at NIBR
“K-136 was a brand-new research building with new labs and an excellent infrastructure, which, when you come from university, really impresses you.”

Stéphanie Tissot, Head Cell Bank Center BDSS
“The change to BDSS was a great boost for me. Together with my colleagues, I work every day to maintain and further improve this center of excellence.”

Tang Jin, Senior Business Planning Analyst BDSS
“BDSS in Klybeck is the first production site I have ever worked at. It is absolutely wonderful – in all aspects.”

Thomas Meissner, Site Quality Head Basel BDSS
“The nucleus of biological sciences has always been here.”