At the customs, a square with trees and compact customs clearance is to be created as an attractive city entrance. A new residential area “Zolloase” is proposed, where the existing customs house and new buildings are grouped around a kind of courtyard.
One listener complained that the city was over-planning private property. “Nobody is building on your property except you,” assured project manager Michael Katz. The urban planning framework only describes the basics for the development of the district and is not legally binding.
Citizens’ Dialogue
The city and the IBA seek dialogue with owners and residents. 20 percent took part in an owner survey, reported Joelle Zimmerli, who moderates the citizens’ dialogue. Two thirds of the respondents saw the project as positive: They hope for a more attractive residential area and more safety for pedestrians and bicycles. They were open for a smooth transition between the public road and their properties, as long as the border remains visible. They suggested creating alternatives such as underground garages for those parking spaces that are no longer available. At the citizens’ forum in October, there was also a great desire for safety for bicycles and pedestrians. On the subject of parking spaces, opinions were divided.
Citizens’ questions
On Wednesday, a handful of citizens answered questions from moderator Zimmerli. Most of them believed that the project would improve road safety, greenery and amenity quality. One man was afraid of “hippies and bullies” in the new public places. One woman described the neighboring Dammstrasse as a “social hot spot”.
When places are revitalized and clearer, it usually increases security, countered planner Dominik Scheuch. Meeting points for children and young people are expressly provided. Other listeners feared conflicts between residents, shops and restaurants because of noise. First and foremost, they want to upgrade existing offers, such as the Gasthaus am Zoll, explained the planners. Shops and restaurants should be located in front of the street. Other listeners wanted space for urban gardening and car sharing.
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