Arsenalplatz in Ludwigsburg: Green oasis or drug hub?

Arsenalplatz in Ludwigsburg: Green oasis or drug hub?

The redesigned Arsenalplatz in Ludwigsburg is causing a mixed response among citizens. After more than 60 years as a parking lot, the square was ceremoniously opened at the beginning of June 2025 and is now presented as a multifunctional urban space. According to reports from Stuttgarter Nachrichten, you will not only find a modern gastro pavilion there, but also comfortable seating, table tennis tables and a grove of 60 newly planted trees, which are intended to ensure a pleasant microclimate. But the joy of this breath of fresh air is overshadowed by concerns.

A key point of criticism from the population concerns the fear of the area possibly being converted into a drug trafficking center. In this context, Mayor Matthias Knecht explained that the choice of the split surface was consciously made in order to better absorb rainwater and thus generate evaporative cooling. This should help to make the use of the space attractive even in hot temperatures. But some citizens are skeptical and fear that this controversial use could soon become a reality.

Design and offerings of the new space

Arsenalplatz extends over around 8,000 square meters and offers space for a wide range of events, from markets to sporting events. Children and young people are also catered for: the new multifunctional area includes water fountains and table tennis tables. The lighting concept is not only intended to ensure safety, but also to adjust the brightness as required. According to the city of Ludwigsburg, all measures are designed to design the square not only as a place for relaxation, but also for urban encounters.

Nevertheless, the location of the water feature, which is placed directly on the street, causes discord - while the city sees this as the most effective noise protection, some citizens see this as a design shortcoming. There are also concerns that the area will not be sufficient for the planned 700 square meters if events take place there. The catering establishments reported technical problems that led to delays in the opening, so the pavilion is not yet in full operation.

Criticism of loss of parking space and safety concerns

Another topic of discussion is the loss of parking spaces as a result of the redesign. The city is planning to replace this with a new underground car park, but finding it during construction work is seen as problematic. Construction on the Kreissparkasse will continue until the end of 2025. So the concern remains that the redesign of Arsenalplatz could not only be a beautiful sight, but also pose a security risk.

The problem of drug use in public spaces is not a new issue, as developments in other cities show. Federal Minister Klara Geywitz has already invited experts to discuss the challenges of drug use in public spaces. Between the reports from Soul in cities such as Cologne, Leipzig and Hamburg, a similar picture emerges that is alarming: children can be at risk from syringes left behind in parks and public places. The need to create a safe and welcoming environment is more urgent than ever.

The challenges for the city of Ludwigsburg are not only structural, but also social. Citizens are wondering whether the redesign of Arsenalplatz can bring about the desired positive development or whether it will go in a different direction. With the new space on the threshold of its first summer, it is hoped that the implementation and offerings can allay citizens' concerns.