Dresden is investing 4.8 million euros in the renovation

Dresden is investing 4.8 million euros in the renovation

The city of Dresden waves fresh 4.8 million euros to be used to renovate an important industrial area on Rosenstrasse. This was announced by the Saxony State Directorate. The area, which is located in the Wilsdruffer suburb, has had a dark story as a storage and envelope for chemicals since the 1960s and is therefore heavily contaminated with soil and groundwater. The total costs for the renovation amount to around 6.3 million euros, of which a significant part- 77 percent- is covered by EU and state funds. The city itself only has to raise 23 percent. These funding is more than welcome because they should not only remove environmental damage, but should also revitalize the area. The renovation measures include a microbiological process for soil cleaning and the demolition of contaminated buildings. After the successful renovation, the area is to be used for commercial purposes, which should also have a positive impact on the cityscape and the local economy. Béla Bélafi, President of the State Directorate of Saxony, emphasized the importance of these means: "The support is crucial for the removal of environmental damage".

Are there really so many contaminated areas in Germany? In fact, this is a topic that affects many cities. As part of the Federal Floor Protection Act (BBodSchG), contaminated sites are precisely defined. According to the Federal Environment Agency, a property is considered an old load if it has harmful soil changes or represents dangers to the population or the environment. This includes decommissioned waste disposal systems and contaminated industrial wasteland, which in the past is often due to improper disposal or historical military use. The renovation of such areas is not only a legal requirement, but also an urgent need to ensure the safety of residents and to protect the environment.

What is behind the renovation process?

The process of renovation of contaminants brings with it a lot of responsibility. According to the Federal Floor Protection Act, not only the original causers are liable, but also the current owners for the renovation costs. The renovation takes place in several steps: First, there is a risk assessment, followed by careful renovation planning and the approval process. The renovation process could contain various methods such as soil exchange or in-situ renovation, depending on the type and degree of contamination. This is not only important for the security and health of the citizens, but also has a direct impact on the real estate market. Lands with contaminated sites lose significantly value and bring sellers in the pressure to inform buyers about any ground pollution. It is therefore essential for future buyers to take a look at the contaminated load cadastre to find out about any risks and the associated costs.

Of course there are also support options for financing such renovation projects. State programs at federal and state levels offer funding if the suspicion of contaminated sites is demonstrated. Overall, there is complex matter behind the renovation of contaminated sites, which takes into account both ecological and economic aspects. With this new financing, Dresden can now take another step towards environmental protection and urban development.