Future of Wismar's old town: Join the discussion!

Future of Wismar's old town: Join the discussion!

An important chapter for the future of the old town will be opened in Wismar on Wednesday. Two participation events will take place in the town hall's citizens' hall, bringing together citizens and representatives of the local economy. The goal: to collect ideas and impulses for the economic revitalization of the old town.

The first exchange begins at 3:00 p.m. and is aimed at the catering, hotel industry as well as clubs and associations. The second event, which is specifically intended for retailers, follows at 6:30 p.m. These formats offer space for open discussions, constructive criticism and creative suggestions, all in dialogue with the city administration. The focus is particularly on challenges such as empty shops, changing consumer behavior and the demands of tourism. The city of Wismar is committed to co-creation in order to strengthen the city center as an economic, cultural and meeting space, as [Wismar.fm](https://www.wismar.fm/wirtschaft-im-dialog- Beteiligungsformate-zur-staerkung-der-wismarer-altstadt/) reports.

Facilities and incentives under discussion

The initiatives to revitalize the city center also include specific proposals that should lead to a more attractive offer. Topics such as longer opening times, new parking options, and a so-called “bread button” for quick purchases are on the agenda. The deadline for submitting proposals was at the end of September, and around 25 responses were received, which have now been forwarded to the economic committees, as the Ostsee-Zeitung notes. Various points were also discussed in public meetings of the economic committee, which should result in recommendations for the city administration.

CDU parliamentary group leader Siegfried Ballentin emphasizes the active participation in the process. The proposals include, among other things, modifications to the special use and design regulations. The aim is to give retailers more freedom of design and to relax the rigid regulations. Those involved also want more opportunities to stay, as well as more urban greenery and a better connection between the port and the old town.

Assessment of the current situation

In the midst of these discussions, Herbert Wenzel, the boss of the Brauhaus am Lohberg, expresses concerns about the vacancy rate and the pressure that competitors such as shopping centers are putting on the city center. A main point of criticism is the high taxes, such as bed tax and trade tax, as well as expensive parking fees, which reduce customer traffic. However, Wenzel also sees great potential in areas of gastronomy, services and cultural events.

The parking situation is seen by many as problematic. The lack of customer parking spaces and the expensive fees compared to free alternatives are issues that concern the citizens of Wismar. It is expected that the upcoming events will bring numerous valuable ideas and suggestions that could contribute to the further development of the city center.

The desire for lively inner cities where people can come together and meet each other is noticeable throughout the discussion. The design of public spaces and the consideration of needs-based accommodation options are crucial in creating an atmosphere that invites you to linger. The German Caritas Association, which is involved in social work on the project, has also taken up this idea City impulses involved. Strong partnerships are required to develop innovative solutions.

The upcoming events in Wismar offer a valuable platform to actively shape the future of the old town and work together on solutions that will breathe more life into the city center again.