Aldi Süd stops housing project in Ehrenfeld – crisis hits Cologne!

Aldi Süd stops housing project in Ehrenfeld – crisis hits Cologne!

In Cologne-Ehrenfeld, a remarkable Aldi Süd project is on the brink: After nine years of searching for a suitable place to live for the multi-generational association “Under One Roof,” there was great hope for a new building above the Aldi on Grüner Weg. A memorandum of understanding was signed in September 2022, which envisaged the creation of 80 to 100 apartments. But now reported ksta.de that these plans are on hold due to the changing market situation and increased construction costs.

Tim Reichenau, who worked intensively on the housing project, is disappointed. “Aldi was the first to present the idea in Cologne, but now we are in a difficult situation,” he says. The shortage of space in Cologne in particular makes it difficult to create new living spaces. Housing construction is in crisis: only 1,819 new apartments were completed in 2022, the lowest figure since 1990.

Problems and perspectives in Cologne housing construction

A large number of project developers are withdrawing from residential construction projects. This not only reduces the number of new apartments, but also increases competition for scarce space. Chain stores like Aldi usually take up a lot of space in central locations, although there are hardly any permits for single-story buildings. This situation could further complicate future housing projects in the city.

Although the “Grüne Höfe” residential project has fallen by the wayside for the time being, Aldi Süd is still planning mixed-use projects in Cologne. Additional opportunities for living space and retail are to be created in Bilderstöckchen, Porz, Gürzenichstrasse and Niehler Kirchweg, among others. There are already 20 apartments on Niehler Kirchweg, and a new residential high-rise with around 80 apartments is being planned.

Sustainable approaches and future developments

As part of the new projects, Aldi Süd is relying on sustainable solutions. The upcoming construction project on Lichtstrasse is expected to attract a lot of attention, especially with regard to noise emissions from the nearby music clubs. A soundproof rehearsal room for musicians is planned to support the local music scene. Positive signals from the city administration show that the project has met with a lot of approval aldi-sued.de emphasized.

The general conditions for the construction project appear promising: the dismantling of the existing Aldi branch is planned within three months of receiving approval, followed by the construction of the new branch including a daycare center and apartments, which should be ready for occupancy within two years.

Cologne in comparison

When it comes to current rental prices, Cologne is not exactly generous. In the last five years, rental prices have increased by almost 10 percent, and the current average prices are around 9 euros per square meter. In popular districts such as Lindenthal or the city center, tenants can expect to pay up to 12 euros per square meter. These developments make it difficult for many to find affordable housing.

The city of Cologne uses its space cleverly. Underused locations of food markets are assessed as potential areas for living space, as ksta.de reports. However, with comprehensive planning and the creation of new projects, the situation on the housing market could perhaps improve somewhat in the near future. A good hand would be required and will hopefully be demonstrated soon.