NOVO Bremerhaven: New center combines youth hostel and library!”

NOVO Bremerhaven: New center combines youth hostel and library!”

The city of Bremerhaven is facing an exciting new chapter! Mayor Melf Grantz has officially announced the start of the “NOVO Bremerhaven” construction project, which is intended not only to revitalize the city center, but also to create a meeting place for all generations. The feasibility study, which was developed by the Städtische Wohnungsgesellschaft (Stäwog) in collaboration with specialist consultants, architects and structural engineers, shows a promising concept that is intended to appeal to both Bremerhaven residents and visitors. “The project is a real step into the future,” says Grantz. Particular emphasis is placed on the innovative combination of a German youth hostel and a city library under one roof, which will be housed in a six-story building.

A special feature of “NOVO Bremerhaven” is that the first three floors will house public areas, including a youth hostel and a city library. The upper floors are intended for the youth hostel's overnight rooms. Light-flooded rooms, an atrium and a city balcony are planned to create a pleasant ambience. Mayor Torsten Neuhoff emphasizes that this project is about breaking down old structures and revitalizing the city. The feasibility study also includes the development of an attractive connection between Havenwelten and the city center, which promotes sustainable urban development. “We want to create a good place for everyone,” says Neuhoff.
Bremerhaven.de reports that the concept implementation will take place using the integrated project alliance process, which has already had positive experiences with new schools in Bremerhaven.

Financing and costs

The first cost estimate for the overall concept is around 75 million euros. These costs are to be refinanced within the framework of 30-year rental agreements with the city library and the German Youth Hostel Association (DJH). The annual costs for the new building are estimated at around 1.57 million euros, which does not include the rental income from the city library. One advantage of planning is that the investment costs are considered reasonable compared to a model with a private investor, which makes the project financially viable. The final decision on the project is expected in April 2027 and if the assessment is positive, construction could begin immediately, with completion planned by the end of 2029. This was also addressed in the comprehensive feasibility study, which has been developed through workshops and group meetings since the end of 2024.
Radio Bremerhaven informed that the city library and the DJH want to promote not only practical but also social engagement.

Social demands and sustainability

The project also pays attention to social sustainability, which is becoming increasingly important in today's urban development. Such initiatives are essential given growing urban populations demanding good access to housing, education, health and mobility. A well-thought-out concept like “NOVO Bremerhaven” could offer an exemplary framework to meet current and future social demands. The collaboration between the city library and the DJH is intended to intensively promote values ​​such as equal opportunities, inclusion and sustainability and thus offers a solid basis for sustainable urban design in the coming years.
bpb.de highlights that sustainable development includes not only environmental but also social aspects, and the NOVO project could serve as a positive example here.

The next steps on the agenda are the architectural designs, which will be developed by Baulampe Architects. A participation competition for architectural services will also be launched to take advantage of more diverse perspectives. The citizen dialogue to discuss the feasibility study is scheduled to take place on April 24, 2025 and offers all interested parties the opportunity to contribute their opinions and ideas. So it remains exciting to see how this ambitious project will develop!