Regional Government Closes Emergency Shelter in the English Settlement in Gütersloh
The emergency shelter in Gütersloh’s English Quarter has officially closed. Operated by the Detmold District Government, the facility provided temporary housing for around 10,000 displaced people since its opening in spring 2022. Most of those staying there had fled the conflict in Ukraine.
The shelter shut its doors on December 5, 2025, as scheduled. By that date, all remaining residents had moved out, leaving the buildings empty. The site was owned by the Federal Republic of Germany, managed through the Federal Agency for Real Estate (BImA).
Staff from the Detmold District Government are now completing final administrative tasks. Once finished, the buildings will be returned to BImA, marking the end of their use as an emergency refuge.
The closure follows a three-year period during which the facility supported thousands seeking safety. With no residents left, the site will now revert to its original owner. The Detmold District Government has confirmed all necessary procedures are underway for the handover.
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