Rhine-Erft: Large Erft renaturation project starts on October 23rd!

Rhine-Erft: Large Erft renaturation project starts on October 23rd!

Big things are happening in Erftstadt: On October 23, 2025, the new course of the Erft was ceremoniously inaugurated. This ambitious project is the Erftverband's largest renaturation measure in North Rhine-Westphalia. The rerouting of the river between Erftstadt-Gymnich and Kerpen-Türnich is not a sideshow, but aims to comprehensively improve the water ecology and ensure that the region becomes more attractive for both flora and fauna.

At 10 a.m. the Erft was guided into its new, natural course - a so-called enclosure. This means that the old 2.5 kilometer long and straight route was replaced by a winding section measuring 5.5 kilometers. The earthworks on the new bed have long been completed, so that the water structure can now help to ensure flood protection.

Details about the renaturation

Construction work on this huge project began in the summer of 2024. As part of this project, a whopping 280,000 cubic meters of soil will be moved, which will be used entirely in the project area. This measure costs around ten million euros and is 80 percent funded by the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. Particular attention was paid to sealing the new river bed with silt. Gravel was then laid down as a bed, allowing the Erft to shape itself.

But that's not all. In addition to redesigning the course of the river, three new bridges and a new weir will also be built in the small Erft. In addition, a rough channel for fish and invertebrates will be created so that civil nature can find a new home here.

Invitation to observe

Interested Cologne residents are cordially invited to experience the enclosure along the new river course. Access is via the cycle path bridge on Erftstrasse in Gymnich, where a spectator area has been set up. Sturdy shoes are recommended, as a real natural spectacle awaits everyone here. The arrival of the water at the end of the new section of the river can also be observed - this process takes between one and three hours. On top of that, the viewing hill in the water adventure park of the Gymnicher Mühle Nature Park Center can also be made accessible to visitors from 10 a.m.

The work is expected to be completed at the end of 2025. The entire process not only pursues the goal of renaturation, but is also a significant measure to protect the environment and the quality of life in the region. The Erft will become significantly more attractive after the redesign and will therefore represent a small highlight for the residents.