Greifswald is planning a million-dollar renovation for the Volksstadion – citizens decide!

Greifswald is planning a million-dollar renovation for the Volksstadion – citizens decide!

The city of Greifswald is facing an important decision: plans for the renovation of the historic Volksstadion are becoming more and more concrete. As the Baltic Sea newspaper reported, this evening the citizens will begin discussing how to proceed. The Volksstadion, which was inaugurated in 1927 and cost 75,000 Reichsmarks (today around 2.7 million euros), is getting old and faces restrictions on use if it is not renovated.

At the same time, the city administration is struggling to acquire millions in funding to finance the urgently needed renovation work. However, it remains unclear where the equity for the project will come from. The city is hoping for support at the federal and state levels and is planning extensive citizen participation in order to incorporate citizens' opinions into the project.

Yesterday, today, tomorrow

The Volksstadion is not just a sports facility, but a place with history that is used by both Greifswalder FC and the Vorpommern Vandals. Fred Barsch, an SPD politician, has already pointed out that the need for a comprehensive study to create a redevelopment area is highly relevant. According to a resolution at the town council meeting on Monday, the mayor should be commissioned to initiate all of these measures in order to establish a redevelopment area. Efficiency in the renovation, for example with regard to changing rooms and sanitary facilities, which should be designed to be barrier-free and separated by gender, are the focus of the planning.

Parallel to these developments, there is also good news from the economy: The brothers Arne and Christoph Brennecke have taken over their father's traditional smokehouse in Kessin near Züssow. The Northern Courier reports on their plans to create a new production facility with a farm shop. Their production of Pomeranian Katenham follows a centuries-old process, and they plan to open a farm café with its own outdoor terrace and a motorcycle museum in 2026. It's nice to see how regional companies are flourishing and setting new standards.

Christmas spirit and security

The Christmas market is also widely visited in the city. This year, visitors feel safer than last year as security measures have been increased. Mobile terror barriers and unprovoked gun checks by the police are part of the measures that will remain in force until December 21st. The aim is to create a pleasant and safe atmosphere for everyone who wants to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

In addition, an important species conservation project was recently launched. Bats have found a new hibernation quarters in a secure vaulted cellar south of Greifswald. The Greifswald Zoo is working to secure this area in the long term and is planning a new species protection project for 2026. Citizens' support has already contributed with donations to stabilize the neighborhood.

Greifswald shows a harmonious coexistence of history, responsible urban development and civic engagement. It remains exciting to see how the projects surrounding the Volksstadion develop and what other positive news the city will have in store in the near future.