Berlin's Schönefeld transforms into a booming business hub near BER Airport
The area around Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) has seen dramatic changes since its opening in 2020. Schönefeld, once a quiet district, is now a bustling logistics and business centre with soaring commercial growth. But as development accelerates, calls for better planning, noise control, and infrastructure upgrades are growing louder.
Construction of BER began in 2006, with the airport finally becoming operational 14 years later. Since then, Schönefeld has seen a surge in building density and commercial activity. Major projects like Cargo City and Airport City have added warehouses, hotels, and offices—including GLP logistics parks and DHL hubs built between 2015 and 2025. By 2025, BER Airport City alone will contribute over 1 million square metres of commercial space, increasing the area's commercial real estate by 300–400% compared to 2010.
The rapid growth has led the Dialogue Forum Airport Berlin Brandenburg to push for stronger coordination. They are urging Berlin and Brandenburg to create a joint framework for managing residential, commercial, and green spaces around the airport. The forum also wants formal recognition as the main platform for regional cooperation.
Noise protection remains a key concern. Local authorities are insisting on keeping the night flight ban and have ruled out a third runway in the coalition agreement. The forum is calling for a full noise assessment that includes air, road, and rail traffic impacts.
Infrastructure demands are equally pressing. Proposed upgrades include extending the U7 metro line to the airport, modernising railway connections, and improving federal highways and autobahns. The forum is also advocating for closer collaboration with Berlin on major projects, such as potential EXPO or Olympic bids.
Schönefeld's transformation into a major business hub has brought economic growth but also new challenges. Authorities and the Dialogue Forum are now focusing on balancing development with noise control, better transport links, and long-term planning. The next steps will depend on commitments from Brandenburg's coalition talks and cooperation between regional stakeholders.
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