Urban forests Leipzig

As open spaces, brownfield sites in Leipzig and other cities and communities can make a meaningful contribution to ecological urban redevelopment. In this context, after-uses that are cost-effective in terms of production and permanent management and serve to protect the natural basis of life and biodiversity are gaining in importance.

Forest development is an exciting alternative in this regard. The new open space category "urban forest" combines elements of forestry, urban ecology and landscape architecture. Economic considerations play just as much a role as the usability of the resulting open spaces. Therefore, the design and equipment refer to the needs of the city residents in order to bring more quality of life into the district with the new open spaces. Acceptance by users is a major concern.

The site of the former municipal nursery was realized as the first model area in 2010 as part of a testing and development project. The design is based on the conditions of the site, consisting of orthogonal path system and groups of trees worth preserving. The strict structure of the former cultivation and production areas is maintained and forms the contour of the future forest quarters.

AppreciationGerman Landscape Architecture Award 2011

Jury verdict: The work impressively shows how shrinking processes can be used positively for the quality of life in a city. In the view of the jury, new urban forests as after- and interim uses are an outstanding contribution to urban development.

With this approach, the authors succeed in impressively spatially implementing the biological diversity of cities, making a high contribution to climate protection and securing recreational areas. At the same time, the chosen approach offers a variety of different forest structure types and management forms. Particularly appreciated is the overall urban approach, which plays on a model area of 35 hectares different urban quarters.

The former city nursery depicted in the contribution shows many potentials, takes up existing structures of the areas skillfully. Positive are the approaches of additional development, which connect the varied places together.

Overall, the work shows how overall urban issues can be solved with large-scale impact. The urban forest "Stadtgärtnerei Holz" will develop a high significance for urban nature conservation, recreation and the cityscape as a novel urban green structure.