The Nakano Ward in Tokyo has officially announced plans to demolish the Nakano Sunplaza, an integrated complex that was closed in 2023 due to aging infrastructure. The new timeline for the completion of the replacement facility is set for fiscal 2034, diverging significantly from the initial completion schedule that aimed for the end of fiscal 2029. The decision to not reuse the existing structures remains intact, reflecting a broader trend in urban revival focused on modern infrastructure amidst increasing construction costs.

Originally, the redevelopment plan involved constructing a 61-story mixed-use skyscraper approximately 250 meters tall, which would include residential and office space on the upper floors, while the adjacent lower floors were designated for a concert hall and hotel. However, following a substantial increase in anticipated construction costs, a revised proposal involving twin towers was presented, aiming to increase the housing proportion. This was ultimately rejected by the ward, leading to the dissolution of the project agreement last June and prompting a complete reassessment of the redevelopment strategy.

In response to citizen requests regarding the potential reuse of the Sunplaza, the district has indicated that conducting a comprehensive survey for large-scale renovations would likely incur substantial costs and take considerable time, thus deciding not to pursue it further. Future plans include establishing a concert venue intended for popular music events catering to audiences of 3,000 to 5,000 people, designed to enhance the proximity between the stage and the audience. The Ward is also considering alternative business models for the project, including a regular land lease model, shifting away from the initial city redevelopment framework that involved selling floor space to generate revenue for the municipality.