Neustadt buys Hertie ruins: demolition and parking lot after 15 years!

Neustadt buys Hertie ruins: demolition and parking lot after 15 years!

A lot is happening in Neustadt an der Weinstraße: From Monday, the long-unused Hertie site will finally be revived. The city has signed the purchase agreement for the run-down property, which has been vacant for over 15 years, and is initially planning a sensible transitional use that includes a parking space. The purchase price of four million euros that the city was willing to pay is not exactly a bargain, but it is certainly understandable given the dilapidated building structure and status as an eyesore in the city center.

According to information from SWR Current The plans must still pass the approval of the creditors' meeting in order to become effective. The Neustadt city administration hopes to become the legal owner of the area on November 10, 2025. Another highlight of the planning: The first step is the demolition, the cost of which is estimated at around 1.5 million euros.

First steps towards revitalization

Until the long-term redevelopment of the area begins, a temporary parking lot will be set up, which is expected to be put into operation from the end of 2026 and will be available for around five years. This is not only important for the residents, but also for the shops in the pedestrian zone on Weinstrasse, which urgently need parking spaces.

With the planned call for proposals for an ideas competition, the city would like to promote citizen engagement. “We would like to actively involve the people of Neustadt in the redesign process,” emphasizes Mayor Marc Weigel, who signed the purchase agreement in Hamburg last week. Ultimately, it is important that the new development reflects the wishes and needs of the population daily news reported.

Background to the Hertie property

The sprawling building, once known as “Karstadt,” was most recently used as a “one-euro department store” before finally closing its doors in 2009. The previous investor, a project company of the Devello Group, had filed for bankruptcy, which led to the current situation. While the city has repeatedly been able to assert itself against competitors, the Hertie ruins will now become an important part of the redesign of the city center.

The plans to revitalize the Hertie site could not only contribute to improving the cityscape, but also stimulate the economy. Those who either live in the city or regularly visit can look forward to new offerings and a friendlier environment. Let's hope together that the upcoming measures will bear fruit and Neustadt will soon appear a little brighter again!