Town hall forecourt to be upgraded for climate protection

The work - a combination of mobile green and design elements and permanent structural solutions - was started this week by Westermann Garten- und Landschaftsbau GmbH from Oelde.

The measures include, among others:

• Conversion of existing tree beds into deep beds,
• New tree plantings,
• Partial unsealing of paved areas,
• Addition of seating options.

Sick trees have to be felled and replaced with climate-resistant new plantings. The work is being carried out in sections. Some closures will be necessary, but the weekly markets and the Christmas market from 12 to 14 December will take place as usual.

ISEK project receives 60 percent funding
The upgrading of the town hall forecourt is part of the integrated urban development concept (ISEK) for Neubeckum town centre. It has been included in the new funding system for urban development funding and will receive around 60 per cent funding.

Müller+Tegtmeier GbR Landschaftsarchitekten from Dortmund, who already supervised the redesign of the town hall forecourt back in 2008, have been commissioned to provide technical support. The aim of the current measures is to make the square fit for the challenges of climate change - such as heat stress, drought and heavy rainfall events - and to sustainably improve the quality of the area.

Unique seating
The new "NEUBECKUM" lettering will be a particular highlight: around 5 metres long, made from 9 sheet steel letters, each 50 centimetres high, and fitted with wooden seating, it serves both as street furniture and an identity-forming symbol. The design was created as part of a student competition, initiated by the neighbourhood and cultural association Verve!