Remscheid plans third place: is the new cultural oasis?

Remscheid plans third place: is the new cultural oasis?

Remscheid. A “third place” is supposed to replace the ruin of the former Sinn-Leffer department store-a project that could excite the minds and the city could lead to a new era! But what exactly becomes the dilapidated building that has been empty for 15 years? The plans are big, but the details? They are still in the balance!

The city has already applied for 2.2 million euros to acquire the property and carry out the first clean-up work. The total volume of the project is a proud 24 million euros! However, the upcoming steps depend on further funding applications that are necessary for planning, demolition or new construction. Hope is great that the ruin of the past belongs in five years. But first of all, experts have to clarify whether the building can be renovated or whether it falls victim to the demolition excavator. An exciting struggle for the future of the "third place" has started!

political visions and disputes

The ideas of what this "third place" should look like are widely apart in politics. While the CDU sees a new city library in the heart of the project, the administration pleads for the settlement of the adult education center. A first argument is inevitable! Remscheid's building director Peter Heinze is optimistic: "I believe that the third place is the opportunity to give the lower avenue new impulses and new life." But how exactly these impulses will look is uncertain.

The first visual impressions could be presented on November 15th if the city celebrates the 50th anniversary of the pedestrian zone Alleestraße. The shop windows of the old department store are to beautify large motifs and hidden objects. But it could still take until mid -2028 until it gets serious about the construction or renovation. Remscheid is at a turning point - the question remains: Will the "third place" be a success or another empty space in city history?