Kiel in transition: Bundeswehr plans to buy back the MFG5 site!

Kiel in transition: Bundeswehr plans to buy back the MFG5 site!

The Bundeswehr is currently focusing on the site of the naval aviation squadron (MFG5) in Kiel-Holtenau. Reports suggest that the armed forces are not only interested in buying back the area, but are also planning a possible expansion of their naval base. But what consequences does this have for the city and its residents?

The city of Kiel, represented by Mayor Ulf Kampf (SPD), currently has no concrete plan if there is a buyback. Kampf emphasizes that it is assumed that the area can be developed independently. Gifts for discussions about the future of the site have already been scheduled, and the city is examining how existing users such as the Waterkant Festival can continue to be supported. The existing contracts for users are limited, but can be extended if desired, giving the city some breathing room.

Urban development projects and challenges

At the same time, the city of Kiel has ambitious plans for the MFG5 site, which will include over 2,000 apartments and commercial space. This could be the largest urban development project in Schleswig-Holstein. The SPD parliamentary group has clearly spoken out in favor of actively seeking location dialogue with the Bundeswehr and emphasizes the need to reconcile the interests of the military and urban development. The Green council group is also calling for solutions that are fair for both sides without endangering the urgently needed living space for the population.

At the same time, accommodating refugees is becoming an unsatisfied challenge for the city. The refugee accommodation in Schusterkrug must be relocated independently of the developments on the MFG5 site, as an integrated development concept that provides for permanent accommodation on the site is being planned. The upcoming empty train from Arkonastrasse, where 160 new apartments are to be built, has priority in the current accommodation strategy.

Refugee accommodation strategies

In conjunction with the need for long-term strategies, the construction of new communal accommodation is also being promoted. Up to 170 refugees are expected to move to the former Federal Property Office on Feldstrasse, which will be purchased by the city in 2024. The renovation of the building is estimated to cost around one million euros. In addition, renovation work is planned in the staff buildings on the MFG5 site, which is expected to begin this year and be completed by 2026, when the first refugees can move in there.

In view of these developments, the lack of scope for the city becomes visible. The Bundeswehr is keeping an eye on upgrading its locations nationwide, which could influence the negotiations surrounding the MFG5 site. The SSW, for example, demands a detailed justification for the buyback and at the same time points out the need for affordable housing. The CDU, on the other hand, welcomes a possible return of the navy to the site, while opposition factions such as “The Left/The Party” see the navy expansion as a potential risk for housing construction.

Overall, it remains to be seen how the talks between the city of Kiel and the Bundeswehr will go. The course for the future of the MFG5 site and the associated urban development will continue to be balanced on a fine line between military interests and urban living space. Kiel could therefore be heading for an exciting and challenging time.

For detailed reports read here: Kn online, NDR, VHW.