City of Darmstadt responds to complaints and examines new solutions for the open drug scene at Herrngarten
The ceremonial opening of the new building of the Scentral drug support center for Wednesday, September 10, 2025 has been postponed indefinitely. Mayor Hanno Benz, in agreement with the DSE, justified the decision by stating that it was the wrong time for an official celebration: "As a city, we still have work to do. Our first priority now is to provide short-term relief from the situation at the entrance to Herrngarten at Frankfurter Straße/Landwehrstraße and the associated consequences."
Complaints about interim solution
While the new building has already been occupied, the completion of the outdoor area has been delayed due to structural damage. Since the outdoor areas cannot be used by clients, pavilion tents have been set up on Landwehrstrasse as a temporary solution. These have led to numerous complaints from residents in recent weeks.
No separation of the Herrngarten
Benz clarified that current plans, which envisage the separation of a public section of the Herrngarten or structural breakthroughs in a listed wall, will not be pursued further: "Such proposals are neither expedient nor communicable." The implementation of these measures has been halted until a viable, professionally coordinated concept is available.
External expertise brought in
To find a lasting solution for dealing with the open drug scene, the city has asked the Association for Work and Educational Assistance Frankfurt (VAE) to provide an external expert's assessment. This will also include reviewing existing plans and adjusting them if necessary. Benz emphasized that all significant changes—such as the establishment of mobile drug consumption rooms—will be submitted to the City Council for approval.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/ho/stip)
