New Hamburg-Altona train station: opening only in 2029 – construction chaos exposed!

New Hamburg-Altona train station: opening only in 2029 – construction chaos exposed!

The new Hamburg-Altona long-distance and regional train station, an important project for the region, will go into operation two years later than originally planned. While the first construction work had already begun, complications in the construction process have now been reported, which will postpone completion to the end of 2029. This reports Deutschlandfunk.

A key point in the delay is the dismantling of a bridge during which dangerous materials such as asbestos and lead were discovered. These unexpected problems required special checks and an adjustment to the entire schedule, such as German railway elaborates further.

Current developments in the construction process

The dismantling of the Langenfelde crossing structure is crucial for further progress. The demolition is subject to strict legal requirements, which has led to delays in the past. “We have to be flexible in the planning phase,” said those responsible. In addition, the new Altona electronic signal box will be put into operation before the new track systems can be converted.

There is positive news for travelers: the existing Altona train station will remain fully usable until it is relocated, while ongoing renovation work is carried out. In this context, barrier-free access to the Diebsteich S-Bahn station will also be implemented by 2026. This is intended to ensure that people with disabilities can travel comfortably.

Costs and future prospects

The costs for the new station are estimated to be between 550 and 600 million euros. Despite the challenges, those responsible are confident that the station will be ready for operation when the timetable changes in December 2029. By then, some construction work has already been commissioned; The construction of the first long-distance platform (platform 4) is already progressing, and the construction of platform 2 is planned for 2026.

Discussions about the design of the station area and the construction of the new reception building are also on the agenda. Great importance is attached to a friendly entrance area for travelers as well as suitable work spaces for railway employees.

These developments show that, despite the delays and challenges in construction, the new Hamburg-Altona station will make a substantial contribution to the modern transport infrastructure in northern Germany. The construction plans remain on track and are continuously adapted to the new circumstances in order to fulfill the wishes of travelers and employees.