Obsolete Stadt - Raumpotenziale für eine gemeinwohlorientierte, klimagerechte und koproduktive Stadtentwicklungspraxis in wachsenden Großstädten

The resource titled "Obsolete Stadt - Raumpotenziale für eine gemeinwohlorientierte, klimagerechte und koproduktive Stadtentwicklungspraxis in wachsenden Großstädten" is published by various institutions including the University of Kassel and the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research GmbH. The project is led by experts such as Prof. Stefan Rettich and Dipl.-Ing. Sabine Tastel, focusing on urban obsolescence and sustainable urban development practices.

The report highlights that European cities are witnessing a significant number of buildings falling out of use due to societal changes. Factors contributing to urban obsolescence include megatrends such as digitalization, changes in mobility, and shifts in religiosity affecting church properties. The analysis reveals that many typologies are under utilization pressure, which can be a critical resource for internal development in growing cities.

A theoretical examination of urban obsolescence is presented, linking current megatrends to potential future transformation fields. The research identifies four main areas affected: work, trade, mobility, and religiosity, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities for sustainable development. It emphasizes the importance of a multi-level perspective to analyze urban transformations effectively.

The project includes an inventory of obsolescent structures, providing a taxonomy of potentially obsolete urban typologies such as shopping malls, churches, and parking lots. A case study of Hamburg illustrates how the urban landscape can be mapped to identify areas ripe for transformation. The findings indicate a growing need for community-oriented uses and affordable housing, particularly as cities adapt to climate change and new social demands.

Stellingen, a district in Hamburg, serves as a case example for this research. It embodies a collection of potential obsolescences across the four identified action fields. The analysis suggests that this area is currently overlooked in urban development but holds significant promise for transformation, especially given its proximity to urban amenities and transport links.

The report advocates for a structured approach to transform obsolete structures into community-oriented spaces, emphasizing the application of various planning and legal instruments. The authors suggest that existing laws such as the building code should be adapted to facilitate these transformations, with a focus on public welfare and ecological sustainability.

The research indicates that urban obsolescence should not be viewed solely as a problem but as an opportunity for sustainable urban development. The findings encourage municipalities to actively engage in planning processes that align with community needs and sustainability goals. The report concludes that a systematic approach to identifying and transforming obsolete urban areas can significantly contribute to the creation of resilient, livable cities across Europe.