Objects returned to state ownership in Shymkent: experience in rational land use
19.08.2025 12:58:12 68.png)
On August 22, 2025, at a meeting on the progress of socio-economic development of the city of Shymkent, important news was announced to the Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. At the initiative of the Akimat and thanks to the coordinated work of state bodies, five objects belonging to the city were returned to state ownership. This list includes the well-known cultural and entertainment zone "Fantasy" and a number of medical institutions. In particular, the return of the polyclinic was considered a socially significant decision for Shymkent residents.
This initiative is not only a real estate issue, but also an effective model of regulating land relations. Because when the land plots where the facilities are located were removed from the state balance, they could be used by the private sector for various purposes. And their return to state ownership means that these territories will be used for specific social, cultural and infrastructure needs.
The value of the objects returned to the city
"Fantasia" is a unique cultural place for residents and guests of Shymkent. For several years, it was privately owned for various reasons and could not fully utilize its original potential. Now this territory is planned to be redeveloped as part of the city infrastructure and become an entertainment and cultural and recreational area for children and families.
The transfer of the polyclinic to the state is an important step in the field of healthcare. Due to the annual increase in the city's population, the demand for medical services is high. The returned facility will contribute to the provision of affordable and high-quality medical care to residents.
In addition, it was announced that the remaining three facilities will be used for social projects. This is evidence of the state's strengthening of social responsibility and pursuing a policy of rational use of land and buildings.
This incident can be compared to other examples in the history of Shymkent. For example, in 2018, after the city received the status of a city of republican significance, a large-scale inventory was conducted, which revealed the illegal transfer of a number of land plots and facilities. At that time, several social facilities were returned to state ownership.
Similarly, in 2020, some educational buildings were returned from private ownership, creating opportunities for the opening of new schools. These practices are consistent with current measures: the state adheres to the principle of not only returning land, but also directing it for the public good.
The difference is that today's returned facilities include cultural and medical facilities. This shows that special attention is being paid to the culture and healthcare sectors in the development of Shymkent.
The most pressing aspect of the issue is land use policy. The sites where the returned facilities are located are located in the city center and in areas close to residents. If they were given to the city in full ownership by the private sector, land plots of strategic importance for the city could be used for unprofitable purposes.
Such solutions in the field of land relations are the basis for the sustainable development of the city. Because every vacant or inefficiently used plot weakens the social potential of the city. And increased state control and revision of property rights strengthen the culture of land use.
Local residents welcomed the decision. They noted that the demand for a medical facility was particularly high, and they were delighted to see the polyclinic once again available to the public. There is also hope that the revival of "Fantasia" will enrich the cultural life of the city's residents.
In the future, the akimat will gradually reconstruct and open the returned facilities to the public. In this regard, public-private partnerships, sponsorships, and ways to attract investment are being considered.
This decision, adopted in August 2025, is considered one of the most important milestones in the history of Shymkent's development. It reflects a new approach to land relations: every plot of land and building should serve the needs of society.
Compared to the experience of previous years, today's step is distinguished by its scale and social orientation. If earlier schools and educational facilities were returned, now cultural and healthcare facilities are joining the ranks. This is evidence of the state's priority for the development of social infrastructure in the city.
The five objects returned to Shymkent are not just buildings, they are a manifestation of fair and rational use of land resources. There is confidence that this practice will continue in the future, and new projects aimed at improving the quality of life of the city's residents will be implemented.