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Improved quality of stay, accessibility and greenery for a central city square
With the symbolic groundbreaking ceremony, the comprehensive redesign of Ernst-Ludwigs-Platz has officially begun. Mayor and Head of Economic Affairs Hanno Benz , Head of Mobility Paul Georg Wandrey , Head of Planning Michael Kolmer , and Dr. Moritz Koch , Chairman of Citymarketing Darmstadt, jointly launched the transformation of one of Darmstadt's most central squares on Wednesday (the 4th).
“The redesign of Ernst-Ludwigs-Platz is a complete reimagining of one of the most important locations in the city center,” explains Mayor Benz. The goal is to significantly improve the quality of the space, create barrier-free access, and add more greenery. Combined with the new town hall foyer, this will result in a contemporary city center area befitting its location, with completion expected by the end of the year.
Upgrading public space
Mobility officer Wandrey also sees the project as a further step towards the qualitative improvement of public space: The square will become more open, barrier-free, and will receive additional seating as well as new trees. "A public space is being created that does justice to the historical surroundings and at the same time offers a new quality of life for everyone," said Wandrey.
Planning officer Kolmer emphasizes the square's character as a meeting place: Public squares must once again be places for lingering, exchanging ideas and for city life – that is exactly what Ernst-Ludwigs-Platz should provide in the future.
Design with historical reference
The approximately 4,000 square meter plaza will be paved with high-quality natural stone in reddish tones, creating a visual connection to Peace Square. A particularly smooth surface ensures low-vibration walking and driving. A ground inlay traces the historical course of the city wall and also serves as a tactile guide for visually impaired people.
A special feature is the return of the historic brass disc that marks the starting point of the Grand Ducal land survey of 1808. After a correction to its position, it will be reinstalled in its historically correct location.
More greenery, seating areas and drinking fountains
The prominent plane tree will remain the centerpiece of the square and will be surrounded by a continuous ring of wooden seating. In addition, four new columnar elm trees will be planted. Overall, numerous new seating options – some with backrests and grab bars – will be created, along with a new drinking fountain in the immediate vicinity.
To improve the overall quality of the area, the existing bicycle parking facilities will be reduced and reorganized. High-quality bicycle racks will provide space for 34 bicycles, while twelve new benches will be installed elsewhere. The taxi ranks will be relocated to the northwestern edge of Friedensplatz (Peace Square).
Construction time and costs
Construction will begin on the side facing Friedensplatz (Peace Square). The new Ernst-Ludwig-Platz is scheduled for completion by mid-November . Construction will be paused during the Heinerfest festival. The total construction costs amount to approximately two million euros .
All information regarding the redesign is summarized online at
www.darmstadt.de
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/dk)
