Kiel and Bundeswehr: Future of the MFG-5 site decided by February!

Kiel and Bundeswehr: Future of the MFG-5 site decided by February!

On Friday, an initial conversation took place between the city of Kiel and the Bundeswehr to discuss the future of the former MFG-5 site in Kiel-Holtenau. The aim of these negotiations is to reach an agreement by February 2024. Mayor Ulf Kampf (SPD) describes the schedule as ambitious, but sees it as realistic. Especially since a change in office is imminent in six months and he therefore has a personal interest in a quick clarification. The “Holtenau East Location Dialogue” initially focused on exchanging the interests of both sides, although details and financial aspects were not discussed.

The Bundeswehr has great interest in the site and is planning a major investment of around one billion euros following a buyback. Among other things, the plan is to expand the naval base, where a sea battalion, vehicle halls, workshops, depots and accommodation are to be built. “The MFG5 site is a piece of cake,” says Kampfer, who also points out other federal properties that could be of interest to Kiel. This exciting development raises questions about the future shape of the area.

New district in prospect

As part of the planning, the city of Kiel also has ideas for the MFG5 site. The aim is to develop a new district here that will offer around 2,250 new residential units and around 19 hectares of commercial space. Navy officials highlighted the increasing need for space to meet the growing needs of the armed forces. Initial approaches to possible compromises were also discussed at this first meeting, but no specific details were revealed.

These conversations are not even complete; In the current schedule, two more meetings between the city and representatives of the Bundeswehr and the Ministry of Defense are planned for this year. A compromise regarding the use of the areas and possible buybacks could also affect other areas in the Kiel city area used by the Bundeswehr. Kampf emphasizes that the interests of both sides must be examined for viability as well as for mutually agreed solutions.

A look into the future

The big question remains whether those involved will be able to agree on a solution in time. The city of Kiel is optimistic and is setting the course for a creative future, while the Bundeswehr is rethinking its location development strategy. For residents and interested parties, it remains to be seen how this interesting dialogue between military requirements and urban development will turn out. However, both sides are determined to pull together in the coming months and set the course for positive developments.

Further information about the course of the negotiations and the city of Kiel's plans can be found on the websites of kn online, daily news and ndr.de be read.