On September 8, State Secretary Daniel Sieveke handed over the first funding approval notice within the framework of the Rhine Region Structural Development Program (STEP RR) to Mayor Georg Gelhausen at the CUBITY Atelier House on behalf of the municipality of Merzenich. The state government is providing around 5 million euros for the redesign of Poolplatz. Construction work on Poolplatz is scheduled to begin in the first half of 2026.
Structural Change Becomes Visible in Merzenich
Poolplatz holds special significance for the citizens of Merzenich. For decades, it served as a central meeting point, a place for gatherings, and a focal point of local identity. However, tectonic fault zones related to open-cast mining caused significant damage in recent years: buildings had to be abandoned or even demolished, and the western edge of the square disappeared entirely. Today, the area is largely characterized by traffic space—a symbol of the deep disruptions brought about by structural change.
On September 8, 2025, State Secretary Daniel Sieveke handed over the first funding approval for the redesign of Poolplatz to Mayor Georg Gelhausen at CUBITY. © Sharon Nathan
Poolplatz to Become a Place of Community in Merzenich
With the newly secured funding, Poolplatz is to be transformed back into a vibrant place of community. Plans include restoring the square’s quality as a public space, eliminating urban deficiencies, and creating an inviting environment. Special attention is being given to integrating the CUBITY Atelier House – a model project that brings together education, teaching, and research. In this way, the square will become not only an urban redevelopment project but also a living laboratory for new forms of community life.
CUBITY Atelier House as a “Village Within the Village”
Implementing the project requires close cooperation between the municipality, private landowners, and RWE Power AG, which owns the adjacent areas to the west. Together, they will develop a land-use plan that balances the interests of the municipality, residents, and the ongoing structural transformation.
Accompanied by representatives from politics and administration, Sieveke expressed his particular admiration for the CUBITY Atelier House: “The cubes surrounding us here invite people to come to the center. CUBITY is a village within the village.” The handover of the funding approval notice marks the beginning of this important development.
Further Information
To the Facebook post of the municipality of Merzenich.
Please note that by clicking this link, you will be redirected to an external website. The privacy policy of the provider applies there, and cookies may be set by the provider.