St. Johannes church square to become greener

The outdoor area surrounding the St. Johannes church in the Herti area of Zug is to be redesigned at a cost of CHF 200,000. It should become ‘a place for play, reflection and relaxation.’ The plans were developed with the involvement of local residents and parishioners.
 

An area similar to the ‘piazza’ in front of churches in Italian cities could soon become a reality on the grounds of the St. Johannes Church in Zug. As part of the ‘Mensch + Kirche Zug 2035’ project, the church's outdoor area is to be redesigned and its amenity improved in line with the needs of the local community, according to a recent press release from the church council.

It has been decided to include CHF 200,000 in the 2026 budget for this purpose. If this is approved at the parish assembly (Kirchgemeindeversammlung) on 2nd December, implementation could begin as early as next year.

A water feature in summer, a marble run in winter
The redesign of the outdoor space includes various elements: a water feature at the northern entrance to the St. Johannesstrasse that becomes a bowling alley in winter will invite children to experiment.

A green relaxation area with a barbecue and seating would be a dream come true, especially for the local scouts. The seating area, plenty of green plants and sunshade sails on the church square will also invite people to pause and meet.

Instead of the existing and ecologically problematic cherry laurel planting, the area at the south entrance, on the side of the Herti shopping centre, could offer space for the playgroups to play outside, and could also encourage older children to linger and exercise using the attractive installations.

Various seating and play areas, as well as green plants, will enrich the outdoor space of the St. Johannes Church in Zug in the future.      Sketch: zvg
A model of a possible outdoor design for St. Johannes Church in Zug. A sun sail and a swing are planned, as well as a lush, natural green landscape     Photo: zvg    
      

‘The church square (Kirchplatz) is intended to be the social heart of the neighbourhood. If it wants to remain so, it will have to change,’ says Stefan Hegglin, the church council member responsible for real estate. Bernhard Lenfers Grünenfelder, the parish leader at St. Johannes, adds: "I’m particularly pleased that so many voices from the parish and the neighbourhood have been taken into account – the design is a direct reflection of their needs.’

There will also be changes indoors
Not only is the outdoor space being redesigned, but the former parish priest apartment (Pfarrwohnung) is also being given a new role. It will be converted and used for temporary purposes, and will offer space for new ideas and community activities. The final utilisation concept for St Johannes will be presented in mid-September.