Allotment gardens in Wismar make way for million-dollar vocational school expansion

Allotment gardens in Wismar make way for million-dollar vocational school expansion

An upcoming property change is causing a stir in Wismar. The district of Northwest Mecklenburg has decided to use almost 20,000 square meters of the allotment garden association “Wismar Wendorf II e.V.” to acquire. The aim is to expand the district's own vocational school center north, which was presented as a major project in May 2024. The district council approved the purchase, the sum of which amounts to 621,000 euros, on Thursday evening. An additional 400,000 euros are planned for compensation for garden tenants. This means the total costs for the district amount to more than one million euros.

But what does this mean for allotment garden associations that are part of social and cultural life in urban areas? According to information from greenthumbpathde.com Allotment gardens not only offer recreational spaces, but also promote the coexistence of different generations. In times when urban space is becoming increasingly scarce, these oases are indispensable for many city dwellers.

The plan for the vocational school

The expansion of the vocational school center includes two existing and four new school buildings, including a boarding school. In the new building, around 500 apprentices and students are to be taught weekly in around 25 professions, including professions such as cooks, nurses and car mechatronics technicians. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026 and is expected to be completed between 2029 and 2030.

This major project is a response to the growing demands on vocational training and the need for skilled workers in the region. In order to make the modernization a success, the vocational school center is already planning various events, including social parties and competitions to promote a sense of community among the students.

Impact on the allotment scene

The allotment garden movement has a long tradition in Germany and emerged at the beginning of the 19th century. Especially after the Second World War, allotments were crucial for self-sufficiency in food. In Wismar, where the Wendorf II allotment garden association is based, the situation is tense. Many allotment garden owners are now forced to give up their gardens, which not only means the loss of their gardens, but also an important social environment.

“We are not just gardeners, but also a community,” explained a member of the association. Events such as the annual harvest festival strengthen the bond between garden enthusiasts and allow the gardens to participate in urban life. But here too, the allotment garden movement, as in Germany in general, faces challenges: the need for space is increasing and the demands on urban spaces are increasing.

The idea of ​​creating a high level of appreciation for allotments could help to increase the importance of these green retreats. Public relations and innovative offers could appeal to younger families and new target groups. Ultimately, the allotment garden associations must continue to fight for support in order to maintain their existence and their cultural function in the cities.

For the allotment garden associations in Wismar and beyond, one thing is clear: the future depends on the balance between urban development and the preservation of valuable green oases.