Gaming and Technology Hub in Katowice - where and when will it be built?

Katowice, a city with a rich industrial history, is embarking on a new path of development, focusing on modern technologies and the creative industry. One of the key projects in this transformation is the New Technology District - the Katowice Gaming and Technology HUB, to be built on the site of the former Wieczorek coal mine in the Nikiszowiec district.

Location

The project will be carried out on the site of the former Wieczorek coal mine in the Nikiszowiec district. This area, known for its unique architecture and historical significance, will be revitalised while preserving its industrial heritage. Modern buildings will be erected around the "Pułaski" shaft to blend in with the existing buildings, creating a harmonious space combining tradition and innovation.

Assumptions and objectives

The main aim of the project is to create a space conducive to the development of the creative and technology industries. The HUB is to become a place of collaboration for technology companies, game developers and the e-sports community. It is planned to provide office space, coworking spaces, laboratories, recording studios and educational and conference spaces. In addition, the project includes the construction of an underground passageway linking the historic buildings, the installation of renewable energy sources and the development of green areas around the complex.

The investment also aims to restore the facilities of the former KWK 'Wieczorek' to economic and social use, to strengthen the potential of games and technology companies and to adapt education processes to the needs of the creative industries.

Implementation schedule

The implementation of the project has been divided into six stages with a total value of around one billion zlotys. The first three phases were supported by the Equitable Transformation Fund under the European Funds for Silesia 2021-2027 programme, with the project receiving funding of more than PLN 309 million in November 2023.

Work on the project started in April 2021 and is expected to be completed by December 2026. However, in December 2024, tenders were opened for the first phase of the investment. Eight companies submitted proposals, the lowest of which amounted to PLN 577 million and the highest to PLN 829 million. The city of Katowice has secured approximately PLN 400 million for this purpose, which indicates the need to seek additional sources of funding or to negotiate with bidders.

Regional relevance

The Katowice Gaming and Technology HUB has the potential to become a key centre for the development of modern technology in Poland. By combining historic architecture with modern infrastructure, the project will attract investors, entrepreneurs and professionals from the technology and creative industries. The initiative is part of the wider context of the region's economic transformation, aiming to diversify sources of income and move away from traditional heavy industry towards innovative sectors of the economy.

The revitalisation of the former 'Wieczorek' coalmine site will not only contribute to economic revitalisation, but also social revitalisation, creating new jobs and spaces for residents. The project could become a model for other cities in Poland and Europe, showing how to sustainably combine industrial heritage with the needs of a modern economy based on knowledge and innovation.

January 30th, 2025