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Braunschweig's Großer Hof to become a car-free cultural hub by 2030

From abandoned schools to a vibrant creative quarter—how one German city is betting big on culture over cars. The first shovels could hit the ground soon.

The image shows a map of a city with a green area in the middle of it. The green area is likely the...
The image shows a map of a city with a green area in the middle of it. The green area is likely the site of a proposed development, as indicated by the text at the bottom of the image. The map is detailed and shows the surrounding area, with roads, buildings, and other landmarks clearly visible.

Braunschweig's Großer Hof to become a car-free cultural hub by 2030

The Großer Hof area in Braunschweig is poised for a major transformation. City officials have proposed designating it as an urban redevelopment zone to address long-standing issues. The plan follows years of decline, marked by empty school buildings and a surplus of parking spaces. The neighbourhood currently suffers from architectural shortcomings and an overabundance of parked cars. Two schools have closed, leaving gaps in the area’s structure. Its position on the edge of the city centre adds urgency to the situation, pushing planners to act despite difficult conditions.

The redevelopment will draw from a 2024 competition-winning design by a Hamburg-based architecture firm. Key features include a low-car creative quarter, new housing, and a neighbourhood garage. Plans also involve spaces for the Municipal Gallery, artist studios, and the creative sector, along with improved green areas and social infrastructure. Financing for the €60 million project will combine city funds with state and federal support. Braunschweig’s administration has committed €7.9 million of its own budget. The remaining costs will be covered through the 'Growth and Sustainable Renewal' urban development programme, pending approval.

If the city council approves the proposal, the Großer Hof redevelopment could reshape the district entirely. The project aims to reduce car dominance, boost cultural spaces, and create a more liveable area. Implementation would mark the first major step in revitalising the long-neglected neighbourhood.

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