Zollhausplatz Becomes “Klimaplatz”

Zollhausplatz is an important neighborhood and transit hub in the eastern downtown area of Erlangen. The transformation of this previously nearly impervious and traffic-dominated urban square will create an urban space that, as a climate-friendly plaza, invites people to linger and gather while promoting eco-friendly modes of transportation. To improve the urban environment, for example, surface water will be used to support the “sponge city” concept, new heat-resistant tree species will be tested, sustainable materials such as wood will be used for benches, light-colored surfaces will be employed to reduce the square’s heat absorption in summer, and biodiversity will be enhanced through larger perennial beds and planting areas. A water feature and a misting system are being tested to create a cooler environment with a more pleasant atmosphere for visitors. The necessary water technology is integrated into the new pavilion for bus riders in a way that facilitates maintenance. Zollhausplatz serves as a pilot project for the redesign of other urban spaces. Through the active involvement of residents and neighboring business owners to date, diverse interests have been accommodated, and the plans have been refined to include more spacious green areas, an art installation on the square, water fountains, and delivery zones. Furthermore, car traffic is to be reduced to a minimum, and new forms of mobility—such as the urban commuter rail, cargo bikes, car-sharing, and e-bikes—will be offered. Flexibly usable urban spaces are intended to promote social interaction.

The redesign of this city square represents a key component of the city’s measures and projects in light of the climate emergency declared on May 29, 2019. Beginning in 2018, an extensive public participation process took place, including citizen workshops in 2019 and 2021 (see documentation available for download). The preliminary draft approved by the City Council in March 2022 was revised again in 2023 through discussions and on-site meetings with business owners and residents, and was ultimately approved by the City Council in March 2024.

At the Erlangen City Council meeting on January 16, 2025, in light of the city’s current precarious financial situation and the resulting need for budget consolidation, it was decided not to allocate any funds at this time for the further planning and implementation of the construction project in the medium-term investment program (2025 to 2028). The preliminary design work already underway in accordance with Service Phase 3 was completed in the first half of 2026 and approved by the City Council on April 14, 2026 (outdoor facilities and traffic infrastructure) and on June 9, 2026 (the pavilion as a building construction project). This makes it possible to resume planning at any time on a sound basis. The implementation of the entire project is to take place in the future based on the approved plans once the city’s financial situation has improved.

The project is estimated to cost approximately €4.6 million for outdoor facilities and traffic infrastructure, as well as approximately €1.9 million for the pavilion, in accordance with the 2026 City Council resolutions. Financial support for the planning costs through the federal program “Adaptation of Urban Spaces to Climate Change” has been promised.

We would like to thank all citizens who have actively supported this planning process so far with their good ideas and commitment. We would also like to extend our thanks in advance to the citizens who will continue to support the redesign of the urban space or temporary greening initiatives with their initiative and energy in the future.