Radebeul has been fighting for junk property for eight years – now the time has come!
In 2025, the city of Radebeul acquired a dilapidated building for the renovation of its core area; Legal hurdles and procedures explained.

Radebeul has been fighting for junk property for eight years – now the time has come!
Radebeul is about more than just a run-down building. The city has been fighting since 2017 for a property on the eastern corner of Turnerweg and Dresdner Straße, which is little more than a hovel. The city has now asserted the right of first refusal for the dilapidated house and is now the proud owner, but the path to get there was anything but easy. Mayor Bert Wendsche describes the process as complicated because it involves high legal hurdles. There is a complex process behind this renovation project that takes into account not only the structural substance but also legal aspects.
The building itself has a gray facade, crumbling plaster and neglected window frames and shutters. It not only represents an architectural deficiency, but also the challenges that municipalities are often faced with. As part of the “Centre and Village Center Radebeul-Ost” redevelopment area, the city council exercised the right of first refusal to revitalize the area and upgrade the district.
Legal hurdles and restructuring notices
A crucial point here is the redevelopment notice that properties in the redevelopment area received. Although this note has no direct legal effect, it does provide information about the special permit requirements within the area. The land registry office requires various documents, such as a negative certificate for the right of first refusal and a renovation permit from the city. These regulations are intended to ensure that no undesirable changes take place in real estate transactions and that the city remains able to act with regard to its right of first refusal.
Particularly important is the approval requirement, which stipulates that any changes, such as dividing a property or issuing long-term rental agreements, are only possible with the consent of the city. This procedure not only protects buyers from excessive prices, but also ensures fair treatment of all owners, especially with any compensation payments.
A colorful mix of challenges and opportunities
The city of Radebeul's commitment shows that it is not just about renovating dilapidated buildings. It is a comprehensive strategy that focuses on both preserving housing and improving the quality of life in the community. The feedback from citizens varies, but it is clear that there is something to it - the city has a good hand for the future of its district and for getting such dilapidated properties back under control.
The next steps in the renovation process are pending, and the hope for a positive turnaround for the old building remains. Radebeul shows that you shouldn't give up even when faced with stubborn challenges, because it's worth turning a shack into a home again.