A presentation took place on the future developments planned for the area. The Kirchberg Fund reached out to Copenhagen-based architectural firm Gehl to help bring the vision to life.
Some examples of the plans to revitalise the area are an open-air swimming pool at the Coque, or a space for open-air concerts behind the Philharmonie building. The aim is to encourage the public to spend time there and breathe life into the neighbourhood, with banks, playgrounds and open spaces.
The main changes would affect existing open spaces, redesigning them to improve accessibility and encourage locals and visitors alike to make use of the neighbourhood's new facilities.
Bausch explained the project would cover a number of areas, from installing new urban furniture, to managing parks and tackling the inconsistencies in housing. A particular issue for Kirchberg has been the disparity between businesses and homes in the area, with Bausch emphasising there would be a focus on creating new housing over the next few years.
In terms of the new developing neighbourhoods, such as in the area surrounding RTL City, the minister insisted that previous mistakes would not be repeated, instead working directly on more innovative ideas. A presentation for the public was planned for Thursday evening, unveiling plans for the area and the visions put forward by the Gehl architects to create a city for the people.
The plans revolve around reconciling the existing office buildings with open, cycling- or walking-friendly spaces. From small details, such as redesigning zebra crossings so pedestrians are not at the mercy of motorists, or adding cycle paths alongside the roads, to making more space for shops and cafés to encourage local businesses - the vision is that of a harmonious neighbourhood for living and working, with an emphasis on mobility options.
The Kirchberg Fund will examine the plans with a view to implementing them where possible, in a flowing and innovative manner.
