Bundeswehr plans expansion in Kiel: urban development or loss of living space?

Bundeswehr plans expansion in Kiel: urban development or loss of living space?

The Bundeswehr is planning an exciting expansion of its naval base in Kiel. According to a current announcement from NDR, the new facilities could be built on the former MFG-5 site in the Holtenau district. This area is important not only for military purposes, but also for urban development. The city of Kiel is already pursuing ambitious plans for the property: over 2,000 apartments and various commercial areas are to be created here. It is considered to be the largest urban development project in Schleswig-Holstein to date.

Mayor Ulf Kampfer (SPD) is aware of the significance of these developments. He emphasizes the importance of urban planning, but is also open to dialogue with the Bundeswehr. “We are looking for an exchange on equal terms,” said Kampfer, in order to find a solution that meets the interests of both the city and the Bundeswehr. Further discussions are expected to follow this year in order to achieve concrete results.

As part of a comprehensive urban development

This project is part of Kiel's strategy to actively address the challenges of the housing shortage. According to a report in the Kieler Allgemeine, the problem is becoming increasingly serious - similar challenges to those in many major German cities are also underway here. A combination of rising rents, a growing population and limited building space make a quick solution necessary.

To combat the housing shortage, the city is pursuing various approaches. Among other things, the densification of existing urban areas is being considered. This includes the expansion of attics and the conversion of commercial space. Another approach aims to build new quarters on areas formerly used for military purposes, such as the MFG-5 site.

Neighborhood management for Holtenau East

In addition, plans are in the works in Holtenau Ost to create a lively district. The round table in the Baukultur Forum on February 13, 2024 was the starting point for brainstorming ideas for neighborhood management. City planner Tobias Brandt presented concepts that integrate a mixture of living, nature and culture in the new district. The aim is to increase the quality of life through communal living arrangements and leisure activities.

“We have a good knack for bringing people together,” explains Silke Solbach from the project company Kiel-Gaarden GmbH. The focus is on networking existing offers and promoting social interaction. Suggestions such as common rooms, game evenings or cultural events should fill the neighborhood with life.

The vision for Holtenau Ost not only envisages a high rate of subsidized housing construction, but also a variety of different types of housing. The idea is to design this development in close coordination with the residents.

Overall, the combination of military use and urban living space in Kiel could be a signal for change and the possibilities for joint development. While the German Navy intends to strengthen its capabilities through a major order to the Kiel shipyard TKMS, the challenges of orientation towards the common good will also remain unmistakable, as emphasized by Joachim Krause from the University of Kiel.

The developments around the former MFG-5 site and the initiatives for Holtenau Ost are examples of future-oriented urban development in Kiel that adapts to current social and economic requirements.