Citizens' protest at Neubrücker Ring: construction plans cause a stir!

Citizens' protest at Neubrücker Ring: construction plans cause a stir!

On July 11, 2025, a lively citizens' event for public participation in the controversial construction projects on Neubrücker Ring and Rather See took place in the Ostheim school center. The high number of participants ensured that all chairs were occupied; Many citizens had to sit on steps, which reflected the excited and chaotic mood. Indignant heckling and laughter echoed through the room as the head of the city planning office, Eva Herr, tried to open the meeting but was repeatedly interrupted by those present.

The plan is to convert 16.3 hectares of former Madaus garden land into an urban district in which GAG would like to build 850 apartments as well as two daycare centers, public green spaces and playgrounds. But the criticism from citizens was loud. Many called for a discussion about the “if” and not just the “how” of the project. Residents are particularly concerned about the sealing of green spaces, the lack of infrastructure in Neubrück and the inadequate connection to traffic, especially on Rösrather Straße and Neubrücker Ring, where an increase in traffic of 20-30% is feared. These developments are overshadowed by the fact that over 1.6 million square meters of green spaces in the region are under pressure from investors and municipal companies, as the “Cologne remains green” initiative, for example, is actively criticizing. This has already collected over 3,300 signatures for the petition to preserve the fields. Districts such as Rath-Heumar, Neubrück and Altbrück, which still have a village character, are particularly affected by the plans and could significantly lose quality of life as a result of the new development areas.

Natural resources under pressure

The planned construction projects are not just an issue for local residents; they could also endanger the supply of fresh air to the east of Cologne. Critics warn that the 300,000 m² sealed area could reduce nighttime cooling by up to 2°C, having a negative impact on the local climate. This is also accompanied by concerns about biological diversity, as the areas represent important CO₂ reservoirs and refuges for endangered species. Citizens pointed out that over 80% of residents regularly use the fields for leisure activities and that the planned new buildings further endanger the city's last green lungs.

In response to citizens' questions and concerns, Daniel Delbrück from GAG emphasized that they want to be open to citizens' ideas. He also referred to the necessary reports as part of the development plan process, which is already in full swing. A central concern of the planned project is to create a car-free neighborhood with underground parking spaces, where 30% of the area will be sealed and 70% will be available for new green spaces. One citizen commented positively on the planned senior shared apartments, which shows that not all residents see the plans exclusively negatively.

Participation and resistance are based on transparency

While the city of Cologne is trying to provide at least 30% subsidized housing in Neubrück through cooperative building land models, there are still significant concerns about the transparency of the processes. Early public participation has already begun, but this has been criticized as many residents feel they have not been adequately informed. The opportunity to comment on the construction projects ends on July 23, leaving people in the region to make their voices heard.

Considering all of these factors, it becomes clear: urban development must find a balance between the needs of citizens, the preservation of green spaces and the need for housing. Sustainable urban development requires interdisciplinary thinking that takes social, economic and ecological requirements into account. While on the one hand there is pressure to develop new areas for living space, on the other hand the need for nature and recreational spaces is non-negotiable. Given the challenges that have increased in recent years, it will be crucial how the city of Cologne responds to the needs of its citizens.