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Work can begin on the UNESCO World Heritage Site
Work can now begin on the planned information center on the eastern slope of the Mathildenhöhe in Darmstadt. Following the completion of the clearing work, the next construction preparations are now scheduled.
Mayor Hanno Benz thanked the police officers deployed for their calm and professional work over the past few days. He also expressed his gratitude to Head of Public Order Paul Georg Wandrey and Head of Urban Planning and Environment Michael Kolmer for their support in implementing the resolutions passed by a large majority in the city council.
Democratic decision since 2016
The decision to establish an information center was made back in 2016. It is considered a key component of World Heritage education and is intended to consolidate services, orientation, and educational programs. The planning process involved the World Heritage Advisory Board and ICOMOS, the advisory body to UNESCO.
According to the city, the project was professionally prepared and democratically legitimized. The mayor emphasized that it was the result of a long political process.
Peaceful protest on the eastern slope was acknowledged as a form of democratic expression. At the same time, the city condemned the discovery of an empty propane gas cylinder rigged with nails as a clear violation of legitimate forms of protest.
Perspectives for OHA eV.
The city also reaffirmed its support for OHA eV. According to its own statements, the City of Darmstadt has pledged approximately €70,000 to cover relocation costs for the Main Hall's move to the Pallaswiesen and Morneweg districts. At the same time, the principle of equal treatment for all cultural organizations must be upheld.
Construction preparations and further steps
Further preparatory measures are scheduled for next week. These include test pits to examine the building's foundation and the application of gravel to prepare the ground for a construction crane. The demolition of the main hall is expected to be completed by March 20th.
The information center is to be designed to be barrier-free and compact, providing easy access to the World Heritage Site, particularly for school groups, international visitors, and people with mobility impairments. Furthermore, the city sees potential in networking with other World Heritage sites such as the Messel Pit and Lorsch Abbey.
Further information is available online from the Mathildenhöhe Institute at www.mathildenhoehe.de/welterbestaette/Informationszentrum .
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/ho)
