Lilienthal decides on its future strategy: a plan for the next 10 years!

Lilienthal decides on its future strategy: a plan for the next 10 years!

In a decisive step for the future of the Lilienthal community, the local council approved its community development concept on November 5, 2025 with a large majority and only one no vote. This concept is presented as a forward-looking framework for the next ten years and is based on comprehensive citizen surveys in which around 15% of the over 20,000 residents took part. The results of these surveys are essential to the planning and show what is really important to citizens.

The concept sketches a picture of a house whose structure is formed by the areas “Life & Society”, “Environment & Nature” and “Living & Economy”. The central statements are clear: “We are creating a community worth living in with green oases and a high quality of stay for all generations.” But not all wishes were taken into account. The main demands for climate neutrality, land recycling and more citizen participation were rejected by the majority.

Planned measures for the future

The concept provides for a variety of planned measures that aim to promote the community's recreational value and further support voluntary work. In addition, the focus is on protecting natural resources while at the same time striving for growth in the areas of housing and business - but not at any price.

The implementation of the concept will be accompanied by a controlling system that the administration will develop. The aim is to monitor progress in implementing the defined goals and to ensure that important issues are continuously pursued even after the local elections.

Political debate and challenges

During the discussions, Rainer Second made it clear that a “lowest common denominator” had been found with the measures adopted. Andreas Strassemeier from Die Linke put forward four proposed changes, which were rejected. Only an editorial change regarding social housing was approved. Among other things, Strassemeier pointed out the need for a circular economy and the goal of climate neutrality by 2035, but this was met with resistance.

“Unrealistic goals should not be included in the concept,” argued Second, making it clear that it is important to formulate implementable and realistic measures. The discussions surrounding the concept show how important it is that all voices are heard, while at the same time pragmatic solutions are sought.

It remains to be hoped for the citizens of Lilienthal that the new concept will actually contribute to a more livable community and that the planned measures will be implemented promptly and efficiently. This is the only way to achieve the set goals and meet the needs of the population.