Protests against high-rise construction: Residents demand a stop to construction in the Ostertor!

Protests against high-rise construction: Residents demand a stop to construction in the Ostertor!

In Bremen, a dispute is emerging over the construction of a high-rise building in Ostertor. The development plan for the controversial property on Kohlhökerstrasse has been extended until 2029, which is met with massive protests not only from residents but also from the citizens' initiative “No High-rise in the Quarter”. According to that Weser courier The allegations against the investor Evoreal are no coincidence: the initiative accuses him of financial difficulties and abuse of the law.

The citizens' initiative is demanding the immediate withdrawal of the building permit, while the city administration points to external delay factors. The reasons for this include asbestos problems, the pandemic and the circumstances of the Ukraine war, which influence the construction projects. While city planner Wim Petry refers to these external factors, residents say that the site now looks more like an outdoor swimming pool than a construction project.

Protests and concerns from residents

The spokesman for the citizens' initiative, Ingo Kramer, is alarmed by the extension of the deadline and sees it as a “classic abuse of rights”. Rumors of the investor's financial problems are increasing as another construction project from Evoreal has been returned. The investor has in mind a high-rise building with around 180 apartments, 30 percent of which will be in social housing, which is considered hardly feasible under the current circumstances.

The discussion about the construction project has also reached the building committee. Concerns are expressed there as to whether the project can actually still be implemented. Anna Kreuzer, the committee's spokeswoman, emphasizes that a change of investor has little chance of success. At the same time, the committee is calling for more intensive discussions about how the project can continue.

Construction planning: vision or reality check?

The city has promised construction to begin in 2027 and final completion by the end of 2029. But these plans are not without doubt, because the financial feasibility of the project is repeatedly questioned. Architect Olaf Dinné warns of the signaling effect of a further extension of the deadline and ongoing concerns about democratic processes are increasing. Kramer, who speaks of a threat to democracy and the rule of law from the executive branch, is clearly rejected in his assessment by city planner Petry.

The residents and the citizens' initiative will closely monitor developments and the city's decisions. Ultimately, the question arises: Will the aforementioned housing needs in Bremen be met or will the construction project remain another anemic chapter in urban development?

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