The proposal passed on Wednesday evening, reflecting “the rightful need for the assembly to decide on the launch of the city’s most important project,” Karácsony said.

He emphasized that “the city’s most valuable development area serves the future of the city rather than the private interests of a few.”

The mayor noted that Budapest will determine what is built on the site, which leading global developers will design according to the approved plan.

He added that the selected developer will be chosen through a transparent, market-based application process.