Golf Center and Private Residences Planned Near Tartu
A comprehensive plan for Ilmatsalu, a borough about 11 km west of Tartu, proposes a golf village, two artificial lakes, and a single-family home neighborhood on the site of former fish farming ponds.
The city of Tartu has unveiled a comprehensive plan for the Ilmatsalu area, envisioning a golf village, two artificial lakes, and a residential neighborhood of single-family homes where fish farming ponds once stood. The planning area spans 200 hectares on both sides of the Ilmatsalu River, including the former fish ponds that have become overgrown.
Indrek Ranniku, head of comprehensive planning at Tartu's Spatial Planning Department, said environmental impacts have been thoroughly assessed. The most critical issue is water flow—how to ensure the artificial lakes function properly, maintain the existing Ilmatsalu reservoir, and preserve the river's ecosystem. Through the environmental impact assessment, these concerns have been precisely defined, as they are the most sensitive for both residents and nature. Ranniku noted that the area was formerly used for fish farming and has since become overgrown.
The golf center will be developed by Tartu Golf LLC, a company registered four months ago. The area is surrounded by forests managed by the State Forest Management Center (RMK), designated as part of the green network in both the county and city plans. Ranniku emphasized that the green network will remain intact, as the golf course will occupy only a small portion of the area on two properties. Nature conservation authorities have approved the plan.
The planned housing development could double the borough's population, which would require reconstruction of the main street and the arrival of a grocery store to Ilmatsalu. If needed, the local school could be expanded and a new kindergarten built. The comprehensive plan also reserves land for a kindergarten on the banks of the Ilmatsalu River.
Eve Kivilo, an active member of the Ilmatsalu community, said the plan is a major topic of conversation among residents. Younger people tend to view it more positively, while the older generation is more cautious about change. Kivilo hopes the city will find the right balance so that existing amenities and values are not neglected in the pursuit of new opportunities.
The Ilmatsalu comprehensive plan will be presented at a public meeting on the evening of August 10 at the school auditorium and will remain on public display through August 17.
