Berlin building boom on the horizon?

The article is published by Deutsche Welle (DW), a reputable German international broadcaster known for its commitment to providing objective news and in-depth analysis. The author, Helen Whittle, addresses a pressing issue concerning urban development in Berlin, particularly the plans for Tempelhofer Feld, a former military airfield that has been transformed into a public recreational area.

Berlin is currently facing a significant housing crisis, with a shortage of over 800,000 apartments. The median monthly asking rent has surged by 85.2% from €8.50 per square meter in 2015 to €15.74 in 2024. The incoming coalition government, consisting of the Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) and the Social Democrats (SPD), has proposed aggressive measures to accelerate housing construction, aiming to build an average of 20,000 new apartments per year to accommodate the expected influx of 200,000 new residents by 2040.

Tempelhofer Feld spans over 300 hectares and is one of the largest urban green spaces globally, cherished by both locals and tourists. Plans to develop this area into residential and commercial buildings have reignited controversy, especially since a referendum in 2014 rejected similar proposals. The Berlin government now seeks to reduce the meadow area from 305 hectares to 180 hectares, with the intention of constructing numerous five- to ten-story buildings and several high-rises.

The debate over development has intensified, as CDU Chancellor Friedrich Merz indicated that politicians must be willing to override local opposition to address the housing shortage. However, opposition parties like the Greens and the Left criticize these plans, claiming they prioritize profit and speculation over genuine housing needs. The 2014 referendum, where nearly two-thirds of voters opted to keep Tempelhofer Feld undeveloped, underscores the community's commitment to preserving this unique urban landscape.

The Federal Association of German Housing and Real Estate Companies (GdW) has welcomed the government’s planned reforms, which aim to simplify planning and procurement processes. Despite calls for more construction, the construction sector has seen a decline in activity, with only 15,965 apartments completed in 2023 due to economic challenges and rising interest rates.

Local activists and community members stress the ecological and social importance of Tempelhofer Feld. They highlight its role in biodiversity and as a community hub for various projects, including sustainable architecture and urban gardening. Critics argue that the government’s focus on building in this space is more about monetary gain for investors than genuinely addressing the housing crisis.

The current political climate indicates that the government may seek to override previous commitments to protect Tempelhofer Feld. While the CDU-SPD coalition has proposed building on the edges of the field, community advocates remain skeptical about the potential for affordable housing. They argue that the government should invest in sustainable urban development that respects environmental limits and community values instead of pursuing profit-driven construction.