Worries about traffic explosion: Residents in the Hensche area on alert!

Worries about traffic explosion: Residents in the Hensche area on alert!

Kassel's Brandaustrasse is buzzing with excitement. The residents are afraid of the increasingly heavy traffic that could flow into the Uferstrasse as a result of the new development of the Hensche area. Truck trips to the large site, where, among other things, the KNDS workshop is located, are currently booming. With the planned parking garage, which will offer between 300 and 500 parking spaces, residents estimate that traffic volume could almost triple. These concerns were loudly expressed by the affected citizens at an information event. It became apparent that many people hardly know who will actually rent the new parking spaces. [HNA].

The revitalization of the Hensche area, which is an old industrial complex, has also attracted some interested parties. Investor “Sector7” sees the potential to transform the ten-hectare site into a lively urban district that combines living, working, culture and sport under one roof. Artists, museums and the Mr. Wilson skate hall have already set up shop there. The concept is ambitious and even aims to preserve the listed character of the existing buildings. "Kassel has a lot to offer. The university attracts talented minds," explains a spokesman for the investor. The possibility of using the area again as a documenta location in the future is also being discussed. Heindrich emphasizes that skeptical voices can still be heard when it comes to the development of industrial brownfields.

Fear of truck traffic

The residents' concerns are entirely understandable. Traffic congestion is not only an annoying issue, but also has a direct impact on local life. 113 people currently live in 97 apartments on the Heilhaus site, and there is also a childcare facility with 55 children in care. There are also around 180 jobs. Residents report vibrations caused by traffic, which even pose challenges for osteopathic practices. Architect Matthias Tunnemann sums it up: “We have nothing against the development, but we are concerned about the possible reduction in value of the Heilhaus site.”

Mayor Sven Schoeller confirms that residents' concerns are already being discussed in the local advisory board. He emphasizes that the sale of the railway embankment, which was purchased as a security measure for KNDS's own premises, took place before his term in office. When planning the new district, attention must be paid to a balance that meets both the needs of the developers and those of the residents.

Sustainable mobility in focus

Kassel is also committed to promoting a more environmentally friendly and livable city, supported by the “Sustainability Urban Mobility Plan” (SUMP). Simone Fedderke, the city climate councilor, explains: “We have to look at larger contexts and not just detailed planning.” The SUMP aims to acquire European funding and focuses on sustainability, multimodality and climate protection. The further development of the transport infrastructure will therefore also be linked to the planned new residential and commercial projects. Kassel.de points to the importance of an integrative approach that prioritizes public participation and sustainability.

Overall, it is clear that the redesign of the Hensche area does not only focus on the development of the district itself, but also the effects on existing traffic, residents and the entire surrounding area must be taken into account. A good hand in planning could be crucial here in order to take citizens' concerns seriously and at the same time take advantage of the opportunities for Kassel.