From an environmental hazard to a new nature and tourism site • The Habonim quarry is on the way to a transformation

The Haifa District Planning and Building Committee recommended submitting the plan for the restoration of the Habonim Quarry, which will transform the old quarry area, which covers approximately 120 dunams, into a new nature and tourism center. The move is being led by the Hof Carmel Regional Council and the Quarry Restoration Foundation, with the aim of transforming the degraded site into a natural gem accessible to the public.

Landscape restoration, trails and observation points

The plan, designed by Inbar Shamir Architecture Ltd., includes comprehensive landscape restoration, development of walking trails, establishment of observation areas and ecological restoration of natural habitats. The land designation will be changed from a quarry area to a public open space (POAS) under the responsibility of the council.

According to the plan, the site will be divided into two central areas:

1. Public open space
   The core of the quarry, including the body of water within it, will become an open recreational space that will include hiking trails, shaded seating areas, play and fitness facilities, and even the possibility of establishing a small amphitheater or an extreme tourist center.
2. Commercial and tourist complex
   In the southern part of the site, a small complex with a construction scope of up to 200 square meters will be built, which will be used for an office, a cafe, a gallery, public toilets and a visitor parking lot.

Extensive collaborations and a lengthy planning process

Shlomi Langer, CEO of the Hof Carmel Economic Company, noted that: "Since 2023, an orderly process of broad staff work has been led, in partnership with all parties, from the council and the Quarry Restoration Fund, through the planning, environmental and nature bodies, to representatives of the settlement. The goal was to transform a degraded area into a quality nature and tourism site, which will serve as an anchor for family and educational activities, while preserving environmental values."
According to him, the approval of the district committee constitutes a significant reinforcement for promoting the rehabilitation of additional quarries in the area.

New tourist center on Carmel Beach

The rehabilitation and development of the quarry, alongside the nearby Habonim Beach Nature Reserve and the "Paradive" skydiving club, are expected to create a significant tourist attraction that will offer a diverse recreational experience for families, hikers and nature enthusiasts, a short distance from the beach.

Head of the Hof Carmel Regional Council, Assif Isaac, emphasized: "The project will transform the quarry from an environmental hazard into a natural gem that will serve the residents of the area and visitors. This is an important combination of environmental conservation and informed tourism development."
Chairman of the Quarry Restoration Foundation, Ilan Nissim, added that this is part of a national trend to reclaim abandoned mining and quarrying sites for public use.
Chairman of the Haifa District Committee, Ruth Schwartz, concluded: "This is an important quarry restoration project for the benefit of the general public, balancing leisure and recreation activities with the preservation of environmental values."