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Construction has begun on a new Presidential Library in Astana، located on a previously undeveloped plot of land near the prominent Abu Dhabi Plaza complex. This development is generating significant discussion among city residents and urban planning enthusiasts.

Project Details and Timeline

The construction site is situated within the linear park area on the left bank of Astana. According to the project's official passport، the facility will be a Presidential Library. The project is commissioned by the state fund 'Astana-20'.

The planned building will feature a basement level، six above-ground floors، and a technical floor. The total area of the future complex is expected to be 108،000 square meters. Construction is slated to commence in January 2026 and is projected to be completed by June 2028.

Concerns Over Location and Green Spaces

The suitability of this location for a library has been a subject of prior debate. Astana already hosts two major libraries: the First President's Library (now the 'Nazarbayev Center')، opened in 2013 with an area of 44،233 square meters، and another large library on the city's left bank.

Furthermore، residents and urbanists have expressed concerns about the scarcity of green spaces in the area. They point out that the left bank of Astana lacks sufficient parks and public recreational areas، being characterized by densely built residential complexes.

In 2020، local residents successfully halted the construction of a planned residential complex in this very area. At the time، city authorities stated the land would be preserved as a green zone. In 2023، Astana's Mayor، Zhenis Kassymbek، mentioned during a meeting with residents that this site would form part of an extension of the linear park leading to the Botanical Garden.

Notably، when the development of the linear park was discussed at the Astana Urban Center in December 2023، there was no mention of a library construction project.

Budgetary Considerations

Prime Minister of Kazakhstan، Olzhas Bektenov، has previously addressed criticism regarding the construction of new administrative buildings، emphasizing the need for efficient use of budget funds. He stressed that priority should be given to projects that offer economic benefits.

Previous studies have indicated that large libraries in Astana often function more like museums، while smaller libraries located within residential areas tend to be more popular among the public.

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