The green space will be redesigned to be barrier-free and climate-resilient by spring 2027
A symbolic groundbreaking ceremony took place on Tuesday, marking the start of the redesign of old town . Construction will begin in August 2026 and is scheduled by spring 2027. The area will remain closed to the public during construction, although individual sections may be reopened gradually.
The renovation is part of the urban development program "Kapellplatz/Woogsviertel/Ostbahnhof". The aim is to ecologically enhance the green space, make it accessible for people with disabilities, and improve its overall appeal. The planning was developed with the participation of local residents.
New paths, more greenery and improved accessibility
As a first step, walls, lighting, and old pathways will be removed. New paths, steps, and flowerbeds will then be created, along with a ramp that will provide barrier-free access to the so-called "old town balcony." The existing trees will be largely preserved.
Plans also include approximately 1,400 square meters of new perennial beds, over 150 shrubs, a new tree, and special sand areas that will serve as nesting sites for wild bees and other insects. New seating areas made of wood and natural stone paving will enhance the overall experience.
Sustainability at the heart of it all
A key focus of the project is the reuse of existing materials. Historical light fixtures from the 1980s are primarily being given to the Orplid Darmstadt for reuse. Bricks and sandstone slabs are also being reused whenever possible.
The new paths will be paved with sawn granite and designed to be easily accessible for wheelchairs and walkers. Tactile paving and guidance systems for blind and visually impaired people will also be installed.
Archaeology and heritage conservation are accompanying the work
Since the site is located in the historic area of Darmstadt's old town, those responsible anticipate archaeological finds. The construction work is therefore being supervised by the Hessian State Archaeology Department. Furthermore, the Datterich Fountain, the old town's ground relief map, and other works of art will be protected or temporarily stored during the construction period.
According to the city, crime prevention recommendations were also taken into account. A more open design of the green spaces is intended to prevent confusing areas and so-called "fear spaces" in the future.
The responsible department heads, Michael Kolmer and Paul Georg Wandrey, emphasized that the redesign should create a modern green space that combines climate protection, biodiversity, accessibility and quality of stay.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/stip)
Featured image: From left: Michael Kolmer (Head of Green Spaces), Annette Laute (Head of the City Planning Office), Anke Bosch (Head of the Green Spaces Office), Johannes Drayß (Säger company), Birgit Gröning (ProjektStadt), and Ulf Schrader (Planorama Landscape Architecture) at the groundbreaking ceremony for the redesign of the old town area. Photo: City of Darmstadt
