Godehardkreisel Göttingen will remain closed until 2026 – all clear for bombs!

Godehardkreisel Göttingen will remain closed until 2026 – all clear for bombs!

There is currently an exciting but also challenging situation in Göttingen that affects the residents of the western part of the city. The Godehard roundabout, an important junction, will remain closed until the beginning of 2026. This was announced by the city administration after the search for possible unexploded bombs from the Second World War revealed no evidence of unexploded bombs. Despite this all-clear, the closure will continue to be maintained in order to carry out extensive construction work. The Göttinger Tageblatt reports that work on the roundabout has been going on for nine months because there are many different lines running under the road surface that had to be removed beforehand.

The exploration for explosive ordnance in this area began on May 5, 2025 in order to examine the area for any explosive relics from the war. The exploration itself required the removal of soil to a depth of 50 centimeters to expose the necessary pipes. The extensive exploration of the area began on June 10, 2025, while targeted investigations at six suspected points followed with evacuations. The city of Göttingen ensured that affected residents had the opportunity to remain sufficiently safe during the evacuations.

Work around the Godehard roundabout

Göttingen municipal utilities are currently in the process of laying empty pipes and digging a pipe trench in order to repair and expand gas and water pipes. These measures are part of the program to improve the infrastructure in the area of ​​the Godehard roundabout. In addition, the district heating network is being expanded at this point, which should lead to a more energy-efficient supply in the long term. The Göttingen Tageblatt highlights that once the work is completed, the road will be restored and the traffic lights will be reactivated.

The redesign of the area in front of the AOK building is also on the agenda. Citizens should find a more beautiful and functional space here. The lighting at the St. Godehard Church bus stop will also not be forgotten: it will be relocated and the bus stop board will be replaced. One of the city administration's goals is to reopen the sidewalk and cycle path as early as possible in order to give pedestrians and cyclists more freedom of movement.

The dangers of unexploded bombs

It cannot be underestimated how widespread unexploded bombs from the Second World War are in Germany. Around 5,000 such unexploded bombs are discovered every year. Experts estimate that there are still around 100,000 undiscovered explosive and incendiary bombs that could be hidden in city centers, residential areas and even under highways. These explosive relics speak of a troubled past. Reports show that defusing unexploded bombs is extremely dangerous and requires expertise to minimize risks.

Overall, the Godehard roundabout in Göttingen remains a construction site. The extensive work, while requiring patience, is part of an effort to modernize urban infrastructure and ensure that such past threats can continue to be reliably addressed to ensure the safety of citizens.