A derelict freight terminal and rail yard in Leipzig, in the Germany state of Saxony, has been transformed into a public space that young and old alike can enjoy. The city administration, stakeholders and local citizens joined forces in the Bürgerbahnhof Plagwitz (Citizen's Station Plagwitz) project to create a much-needed community area. Attractions include a variety of green spaces and play areas for children.
Turning wasteland into a vibrant public space in Leipzig, Germany
- 31 August 2020
Urban (re-)development means transforming underutilised areas or ‘wastelands’ into liveable spaces for citizens, while offering opportunities for local businesses and groups of interest, as well as a healthy environment for outdoor activities. The participation of local people is a key tool for a successful development of the European city of tomorrow.
In 2009, a foundation was formed to examine how this derelict and abandoned space could best be used for the people of Leipzig. A planning process was established which involved city officials, local organisations and citizens through workshops, site visits and town hall meetings. The visions developed through this dialogue started to become a reality after the city purchased the site in 2012.
Green spaces
Extensive works have been carried out to meet the needs of different groups. This once industrial space now contains playgrounds, habitats for endangered species, expansive lawns and meadows, a scout track, an urban forest and community gardens. A cycle path connects the project site to the neighbouring rural and urban areas, existing parks and wildlife havens.
To keep the city connected to its industrial past, the freight yard’s station and sections of railway tracks have been preserved as part of the redevelopment. During construction of the new facilities an emphasis was placed on using recycled materials and sustainable local resources.
Popular destination
Thousands of people use the space for recreational and educational purposes every year. It has become a thriving centre for the arts, creative people and young families. Over the next few years, additional cycle paths in and around Bürgerbahnhof Plagwitz will be constructed, improving connections with the locality and nearby lakes. The revamped site is accessible via the city’s public transport system.
Giving local people an active role in decision-making was an important part of this ERDF-supported project. Citizens worked with local civil society organisations, city officials, landscape architects and urban planners to regenerate the site for non-economic use. This intensive dialogue resulted in widespread acceptance of the project.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “Bürgerbahnhof Plagwitz” is EUR 2 500 000, with the EU’s European Regional Development Fund contributing EUR 1 700 000 through the “Saxony” Operational Programme for the 2014-2020 programming period. The investment falls under the priority “Social Inclusion”.