Refurbished pedestrian zone in Bergisch Gladbach, as ISG introduces three new city fixtures for enhanced living conditions
In the heart of Bergisch Gladbach, a series of innovative outdoor seating and social areas known as City Decks have been introduced in the pedestrian zone. These integrated spaces, designed for encounters and reflection, are part of an ongoing effort to make the city centre more livable and attractive.
The City Decks are the brainchild of the Immobilien- und Standortgemeinschaft (ISG) Hauptstraße, a strategic partnership between property and real estate owners, active companies, and the municipality. Established in 2012, the ISG Hauptstraße has been committed to the sustainable development and revitalization of Bergisch Gladbach's city centre since its inception.
Dr. Josef Cramer, chairman of the ISG, explains that the City Decks are designed to improve the quality of stay and positively influence the shopping experience in the city centre. By creating small green oases amidst the urban hustle and bustle, these areas offer passersby seating opportunities and contribute to the city's overall appeal.
The City Decks, which are another step in efforts to revitalize Bergisch Gladbach's city centre, typically involve wooden or otherwise designed platforms and seating setups integrated into the pedestrian zone. These transform formerly underutilized or purely transit-oriented areas into lively, inviting places, encouraging people to linger longer and fostering a stronger sense of community and urban vivacity.
The installation of the new urban furniture is part of a comprehensive measure package from the ISG Hauptstraße, aimed at animating the pedestrian zone. The goal is to increase the attractiveness of the city centre, upgrade the location as an economic area, and improve the quality of stay in the pedestrian zone.
The city administration supports the initiative of the ISG Hauptstraße, recognizing the potential benefits for both the local businesses and the community. Bergisch Gladbach was one of the first 20 model cities in North Rhine-Westphalia to establish an ISG in 2012, demonstrating the city's forward-thinking approach to urban development.
The ISG Hauptstraße becomes active when political decisions affect properties in the city centre or trade and commerce. By working closely with the municipality, the ISG can ensure that decisions align with the interests of property and real estate owners, active companies, and the long-term vision for the city centre.
The third edition of the ISG Hauptstraße was applied for in 2024 and was passed as a bylaw with a measure package and a public-law contract in the summer of 2024. With the continued support and active involvement of the ISG, Bergisch Gladbach's city centre is set to continue its transformation into a vibrant, attractive, and livable urban space.
The City Decks, launched by the ISG Hauptstraße, are not only focusing on outdoor seating but also aim to improve the overall lifestyle of Bergisch Gladbach's city centre. These vibrant home-and-garden like spaces, integrated into the pedestrian zone, offer a welcome respite from the urban hustle and bustle, fostering a stronger sense of community and urban vivacity.
