Wiesbaden plans to restore the "Red Tower" situated in Schelmengraben.
Wiesbaden's Red High-Rise to Undergo Comprehensive Renovation
In a significant move for Wiesbaden's urban development, the Wiesbaden Urban Development Corporation (SEG) has announced plans to renovate the "Rotes Hochhaus" (Red High-Rise) in the Schelmengraben neighbourhood. The building, which has been a symbol of stagnation in the area for years, was recently acquired by the SEG.
The Red High-Rise, situated in the heart of the Schelmengraben neighbourhood, has faced a history of important investments lacking and frequent changes of ownership, leading to planning uncertainty. However, Andreas Kowol, the transport and building commissioner, stated that the acquisition lays the foundation for comprehensive urban redevelopment.
The SEG's renovation plans include the creation of around 150 apartments, the retention of currently empty commercial units, and the development of a new supermarket. The facade cladding of the Red High-Rise, which contains an asbestos mixture, will be removed and disposed of specifically.
The residents of the building will be temporarily relocated during the phased renovation, and they can keep their rental contracts. The exact increase in rent post-renovation is not yet foreseeable. The groundbreaking for the renovation is scheduled for no earlier than 2026, and no timeframe has been set for completion.
The SEG will develop initial concepts for the new development of the site in the coming months. These plans will focus on dialogue with the Schelmengraben neighbourhood council and the local council, ensuring the community's input in the redevelopment process.
The adjacent shopping arcade is currently completely empty, but the SEG's plans may breathe new life into the area. The city of Wiesbaden announced the purchase on Friday (25th July) at a press conference, marking a new chapter for the Red High-Rise and the Schelmengraben neighbourhood.
[1] For comprehensive and up-to-date details on the renovation plans, including cost estimates, construction schedule, and neighborhood impact assessments, consulting local municipal planning documents, SEG Wiesbaden announcements, or Wiesbaden city press releases would be necessary. The city is investing around 15 million euros in the renovation in the coming years.
- The SEG's renovation plans for the Red High-Rise aren't limited to apartment creation and supermarket development; they also include revitalizing the home-and-garden area with the potential reopening of commercial units for other lifestyle opportunities.
- Once the renovation is complete, the Red High-Rise, symbolizing Wiesbaden's urban redevelopment, may transform into an attractive home-improvement hub, providing residents with a variety of modern amenities and facilities.
