Rostock is planning vertical parking towers: The solution to a lack of space?

Rostock is planning vertical parking towers: The solution to a lack of space?

An innovative solution to the parking shortage in the city center could soon be launched in Rostock. An application to introduce vertical parking systems is currently being discussed by the citizens. This motion is supported by Sybille Bachmann and Axel Tolksdorff from the Rostocker Bund and Manuela Semder from the Free Voters. The decision on this proposal will be made on November 19, 2023, as Northern Courier reported.

The application has received a generally positive response from the city administration. Senator Ute Fischer-Gäde from the Green Party emphasizes that vertical parking towers can be a solution to create additional parking spaces in already densely built-up inner city locations. These modern parking solutions can not only be set up quickly, but can also be easily dismantled when they are no longer needed. This gives cities the flexibility they urgently need in times of urbanization.

Opportunities and challenges

However, the shift towards vertical parking also brings challenges. The technology behind these systems requires more effort, and maintenance and safety testing must also be taken into account. In addition, the costs per parking space tend to be higher than with conventional parking garages. The legal hurdles are particularly tricky, as construction and operation in areas dedicated to the public are not easily permitted.

The Rostock CDU parliamentary group has suggested that experts such as VePa Vertical Parking GmbH be included in the audit process. Such specialist companies can bring valuable expertise and practical experience to the evaluation. According to VePa, the need for intelligent, sustainable mobility solutions in urban areas is great, especially as more and more cities have to develop innovative spatial concepts in order to meet climate goals. VePa already offers solutions that can create up to 20 parking spaces and charging points in just 50 m², providing cities with additional space. VePa emphasizes that the gradual unsealing of up to 130 m² of green space per system represents an environmentally friendly component of modern park concepts.

The vision of a sustainably designed city

The integration of such solutions into the cityscape could not only provide additional parking spaces, but also create a positive feeling for the quality of stay and urbanity for the general public. The need for charging points for electric vehicles is increasing, and the conversion of the infrastructure must not only be tailored to needs, but also implemented in an environmentally conscious manner. The conversion and installation of such systems could be completed within a few months, which is a clear advantage given the fast pace of our times.

Of course, the implementation of vertical parking systems cannot be viewed in isolation. It requires a concerted effort and collaboration between city governments, private owners and citizens to achieve sustainability goals while alleviating parking shortages. Ultimately, the clear challenges require well-thought-out planning and execution.

Rostock therefore has the opportunity to not only counteract the much-vaunted lack of space through vertical parking systems, but at the same time to take a step towards a more sustainable urban future. The coming weeks and the citizens' decision will show whether this approach can become reality. Such a development would be a sign that Rostock is taking the first step into modern and environmentally conscious urban planning.