Housing offensive: Gmünder local council decides on increases!

Housing offensive: Gmünder local council decides on increases!

In Schwäbisch Gmünd, the local council passed an important resolution that promotes the creation of living space in the city. The planned increase in the “Kirchäcker” residential area in Unterbettringen met with broad approval and was passed unanimously. This project involves densification that affects the existing buildings from the 1970s and 80s. The aim is to create more living space in the same area, especially for multi-generational living. The aim is to use the existing structures more efficiently and improve them in order to meet the high demand for living space in the city. remzeitung.de reports that the decision also requires a change to the development plan, which has existed since 1977, to enable such increases.

The extension in “Kirchäcker” stipulates that houses can usually be increased by one floor if this results in a new apartment. This is particularly relevant as many residential buildings in this area only have one full floor. Furthermore, the local council also discussed the planned expansion of the Unterm Bilsen development plan in Weiler i. d. Bergen, which was met with majority approval, but also with concerns from some factions and the administration. Resident requests to raise their homes have already taken place, demonstrating the high demand and incentive for these measures. gmuender-tagespost.de emphasizes that in future only a second full floor will be approved, although exceptions apply for certain types of houses.

Sustainability and urbanity

The concept of vertical densification is not only used to meet housing needs, but is also discussed as a sustainable method. How pwc.de reports, this strategy means that new green spaces do not have to be sealed to create additional living space. The preservation of parks and green spaces in metropolitan areas has positive effects on the climate and the quality of life of residents. In addition, increased use of sustainable building materials such as wood helps to significantly reduce primary energy consumption.

Vertical development also has the advantage that it enables lower living space production costs and shorter construction times compared to conventional new buildings. Social mixing and better, sustainable coexistence in urban structures can be promoted. These aspects are fundamental to permanently increasing the attractiveness and quality of life in Schwäbisch Gmünd.

Overall, the local council's resolutions show the need and willingness to respond to the high demand for housing while at the same time addressing environmentally conscious solutions. Mayor Richard Arnold keeps the royal word: Planned infrastructure measures, such as a connecting road between Degenfelder Strasse and Herdtlinsweilerstrasse, largely relate to the discussion, which is not seen as a priority in the local council.