Citizens of Bürgel collect ideas for the future of their district

Opinions were particularly divided on the Dalles. Many participants were of the opinion that restaurants, play facilities for children and a design that would also attract visitors from the banks of the Main to Bürgel could revitalize the Bürgerplatz. The lowering of the square according to the historical model was considered. Other participants feared the loss of the green space and spoke out in favor of maintaining the current structural condition. "A redesign could lead to increased noise pollution," they expressed their fears. "Above all, the participants wanted peace and quiet to return to the square. In their opinion, dog waste, traffic noise and noisy passers-by greatly impair the quality of the square," says Anna Biegler, the project manager commissioned by the office, summarizing the comments. Kristina Oldenburg, moderator of the public participation process, adds: "The Dalles is of concern to the citizens of Bürgel. The current situation is not satisfactory. In the further course of the process, it is therefore necessary to take a closer look at the Bürgerplatz."

In the historic village center, the Engelsgässchen was examined more closely. "It is one of the most beautiful streets in the village center. This is not only due to the good condition of the buildings, but also to the view of the historic courtyards, the Hofreiten," said Biegler. Architect Thekla Sturm, an expert in village center design, confirmed this and emphasized the effect of private open spaces in historic village centers: "In Bürgel's village center, there are many walls that don't fit into the overall historic picture and create anonymity. The village center can look more harmonious with few resources. For example, a rose bush protruding over a wall or a courtyard gate that provides a view into the courtyard can enhance the atmosphere."

Local resident Anton Demmer reported on his experiences with the renovation of his half-timbered house, which was awarded the City of Offenbach's monument protection prize. "In retrospect, the renovation was not as big a challenge as expected. The important thing is to work with experts." Unfortunately, there are not many of these in the region. He had commissioned a craftsman from Thuringia for the timber-framed house. Other participants expressed a need for advice and suggested a regulars' table that would be suitable for exchanging experiences and questions.

They would like to see a contact person from the administration who is specifically responsible for building and design issues in the historic town center. "A design statute with the aim of preserving and improving the historic appearance could serve as a guide," says Biegler. "And a signposted tour with information boards about historical places, events and important people would make the village center as a whole more perceptible."

The business structure in Langstrasse was also discussed. "We shop almost exclusively in this street. As we don't have a car, it's a great advantage to be able to reach the shopping street on foot," reported a family living in Bürgel. The ability to shop in the district is also immensely important for senior citizens. "We are glad that we still have a post office. We want it to stay that way for a long time to come," affirmed one participant on the tour.

The former Hau vending machine factory in Kurfürstenstraße was an almost forgotten site. The ageing building is currently living a shadowy existence. A long-established resident expressed his regret: "My father worked for the Hau company, which had a worldwide reputation for its vending machines. Hardly anyone knows today what function the factory used to have." Town planner Biegler explained that Bürgel has grown considerably as a result of industrialization. "The Hau vending machine factory is a testimony to this industrial past," said Biegler. The future of the building was discussed controversially. It was suggested that the factory building could be converted into lofts or spaces for art and culture. Other voices were in favor of demolition and new construction.

Traffic congestion in the district was also a major issue. Due to its north-south orientation, Bürgel has a high level of through traffic. The Mainzer Ring has reduced traffic in the town center. However, this does not go far enough for many participants. However, Horst-Ingo Kupfer, traffic planner for the city of Offenbach, was able to give a positive outlook: "Langstraße and Offenbacher Straße are currently being downgraded from district roads to municipal roads. This clears the way for 30 km/h. Both roads will remain priority roads."

In conclusion, the experts from the administration emphasized that they were pleased with the positive response to the public participation. "We invite all residents to continue to participate and take part in the third walk on the subject of accessibility and senior citizens." The walk starts on Tuesday, June 13, at 10 a.m. at the Dalles.