Controversy about Flexiheim: opportunities and worries in Bogenhausen!

Controversy about Flexiheim: opportunities and worries in Bogenhausen!

In the Munich district of Bogenhausen, a new Flexiheim is planned to be built on the site of a former petrol station on Cosimastraße 234. Around 96 people are to be accommodated in double apartments here. The initiative for construction goes back to private investors, but they are confronted with controversy in the district committee (BA). In particular, the CSU expresses concerns about the proximity to a former drug hotspot, the Pharaohaus. Andreas Voßeler of the Greens is positive about the project and explains that "normal people" will live in the Flexiheim.

Karin Vetterle from the SPD criticizes the negative perception, which is often shown. In order to minimize the resistance to the Flexiheim, Greens parliamentary group spokesman Samuel Moser demands early information from the residents about the plans. The BA also asked for soil samples to exclude possible toxic residues of the former petrol station. Frank Boos, spokesman for the social department, assured that the soil conditions are secured and the residents are informed.

flexi homes as part of the solution for homelessness

The city of Munich faces the challenge of living up an increasing number of homeless people. It is estimated that around 10,000 people live in Munich in Munich, a trend that is worrying. The city has legally obliged to accommodate homeless people and has introduced Flexi homes since 2017 that offer a significantly improved living situation. These homes comprise 100 to 200 apartments and equipped the residents with their own kitchens and bathrooms as well as common rooms to facilitate everyday life.

Currently there are nine flexi homes in Munich that offer space for around 1,250 people. The city council is planning a total of 5,000 bed sites in Flexi homes by 2025, but has so far been behind the planned destinations. It is particularly worth mentioning that the Flexi homes are designed as temporary accommodation, but many residents have to live there for more than six months because access to permanent apartments is often difficult.

life in the flexiheim

The experience of Eva Leyerer, a 45-year-old woman who became homeless in 2018 due to depression and financial difficulties, shows how important the flexi homes are. She has been living in a Flexi home in Obersendling since 2020, where she lives in an 18 square meter apartment. For them, the living space with their own kitchen and a bathroom represents a significant improvement.
The Flexi homes are particularly suitable for different target groups, including individuals, couples and families, while support for mentally ill or addicted people is provided. Verena Büttner, head of the Flexi homes, emphasizes the contribution of the facilities to stabilize the life situation of the residents.

The previous experiences with the Flexi homes illustrate the endeavors of the city of Munich to offer homeless households, especially families and young people from inpatient youth welfare. At the same time, the search for new locations for the Flexi homes remains a big challenge.

The planned construction for the new Flexiheim in Bogenhausen is scheduled for early 2026, with a expected movement of the first residents in 2027. It remains to be seen how public perception and acceptance of this social institution will develop.