Welser Volksgarten: Large unsealing project starts now!

Welser Volksgarten: Large unsealing project starts now!

In Wels, demolition work for the ambitious “Volksgarten Neu” project began at the end of April 2025. In one of Austria's largest unsealing projects, old exhibition halls are being gradually removed, a process that is expected to last until July. The redesign is intended to clear an area of ​​over 40,000 square meters of concrete to create space for more greenery and leisure activities. Around 10,000 square meters are planned as a park, which is tailored to the needs of the population and, last but not least, an important step towards improving climate adaptation in urban areas.

The city of Wels has entrusted the garden design to Grünbau Jakel GmbH. 2.5 million euros have been budgeted for this work, which will be used to plant 500 new trees and create shrub and meadow areas. These trees are not only a response to climate change, but also provide shade and improve air quality in the city. Implementation contracts for a water network and lighting were also concluded, with a total investment of 480,000 euros.

Extensive infrastructure work

The demolition of the old exhibition halls marks the beginning of construction phase 1 of the project, which also includes the redesign of the Volkspark and the new construction of the exhibition hall. The original structures were purchased by the city in 1930 and built upon over the years. The dismantling will be accompanied by extensive infrastructure work, including the construction of a pond, new paths and sports areas. These are intended to make the new park area barrier-free and offer attractive leisure opportunities. The entire park is divided into three areas, with a central playground and a large water lily pond.

The plans are inspired by the famous Central Park in New York, and water is highlighted as a central design element. Not only does this promote quality of life, but it can also help moderate the heat in the summer months. VDI recommendations for action on “Urban Development in Climate Change” support such initiatives by advising municipalities to use heat- and drought-resistant native wild plants to increase biodiversity and thermal comfort.

Financing and outlook

The total cost of the project is around 65 million euros. Of this, around 20 million euros are earmarked for the redesign of the park, 34 million euros for the new construction of the exhibition hall and over 10 million euros for the state horticultural show in 2027. Financing will come from budget surpluses without taking on new debt, but at the expense of reserves. An additional 80,000 euros in funding has been applied for by the state of Upper Austria for the unsealing, while EU funding is still outstanding.

City politicians appeal to citizens to understand the inevitable noise emissions and traffic disruptions during the construction work, which is scheduled to be completed by 2026. The redesign of the Volksgarten area clearly shows the city of Wels' commitment to improving the quality of life through more green spaces and leisure areas.

Further information and current progress is available on the city's website: wels.at/volksgarten.