A new meeting place for all generations
On 6 May 2023, after years of commitment and cooperative work, the neighborhood development in Preuswald reached its festive climax: Young and old came together with a colorful program and lots of treats, spent the day in sunny weather in the new neighborhood park, which was ceremoniously opened by Lord Mayor Sibylle Keupen.
In recent years, the social structure in Preuswald has been stabilized, the quality of living improved and the attractiveness of the neighbourhood increased thanks to the commitment of many contributors. As a further 'building block' in this process, the conversion of the central urban green and play area into a cross-generational neighborhood park and meeting place for all population groups has now been implemented.
Planning process and participation steps
A broad-based participation process was fundamental to the planning. A kick-off event was held in the neighborhood at the start of the project with representatives from the district conference, Vonovia and the city of Aachen. The results of this 'park workshop' were incorporated into the development of the design concept, which was presented and discussed at a further public event.
In order to find out the specific needs, ideas and wishes of children and young people for further detailed planning, an additional participation event was held specifically for this age and usage group. At the meeting with numerous children and parents, many suggestions were made during a joint planning walk and subsequent hands-on activities, and priorities were set for various play options. The results were subsequently reviewed and taken into account in the design planning.
Objectives and content of the redesign
The green area was developed as a park-like recreational and natural space, with clear pathways, changing vegetation patterns and shady and sunny areas. This overall picture is complemented in the center of the park by three specially designed usage areas.
The park has three steps, a path that also provides access for care vehicles and a ramp system for the disabled via the adjacent 'Quartiersplatz'. The main connections were equipped with lighting.
Two play and exercise areas and a central meeting point form the focal points for activities and communication. The 'climbing pyramid' to the south of the park center, a transparent construction with various balancing ropes and nets, offers a variety of challenges for children and young people. Play attractions for different age groups in the eastern part of the park include several ground trampolines, a nest swing, gymnastic poles and a play tower with a tunnel slide. Both play areas are accentuated by the color scheme. Several benches and a 'picnic area' add to the range of uses and the quality of stay.
The adjacent, multifunctional 'neighborhood square' can be used not only by residents but also by neighboring institutions. It offers an area for civic activities and events (e.g. neighborhood festivals, markets).
In the center of the neighborhood park is another meeting area with a surrounding seating wall. A space for free play and a variety of uses, a meeting point and event location, with a seating platform for communication and communal activities. The area between the gardens and the western connection to Walhorner Strasse serves as a retreat. Here you can enjoy the view of the greenery on sunlit benches.