All gray with work?

The Ostpark Bochum

A remarkable urban transformation is taking place in the Altenbochum and Laer districts of Bochum: Ostpark Bochum is a pioneering residential quarter with around 1,300 new residential units being built on 43 hectares. What is special about this is that the two areas - the Feldmark district in Altenbochum and the Havkenscheider Höhe district in Laer - are being connected by a sophisticated system of urban greenery, water features and sustainable drainage concepts.

The backbone of this connection is formed by watercourses and water areas with adjacent recreational areas. These green corridors not only create attractive leisure facilities for residents, but also fulfill important ecological and climatic functions. Both districts benefit from the generous proportion of open spaces: Of the total area of 43 hectares, only 14 hectares are purely net building area, while an impressive 29 hectares are earmarked for open spaces and green infrastructure.

A central part of this is a converted grass pitch in Laer.

The sponge city principle

A central component of the project is the sponge city principle. Like a sponge, "the city" absorbs rainwater, stores it and releases it again when required. Specifically, this is achieved through a sophisticated system of green spaces for retention, drainage systems and retention basins.

The new landscaped lake in Havkenscheider Park, on the former LFC Laer pitch, has immediately become a popular destination. The lake with an adjoining park between the two residential areas being built not only offers a high recreational value, it is also a central element of the innovative rainwater management in Ostpark Bochum.

Instead of quickly draining rainwater into the sewer system, it is collected on site, slowly seeps away or evaporates. This has several advantages: The system helps to prevent flooding during heavy rainfall, the stored water can supply the vegetation during dry spells and the evaporation ensures a pleasant microclimate.

The transformation of the barn

A particularly impressive part of this green transformation has already been implemented in the Havkenscheider Höhe district in Laer. For decades, this area was home to a traditional 7,000 m² clay pitch, which was mainly used for club soccer and was only available to a limited number of users. The neighboring club BFC Laer was given an artificial turf pitch a few years ago, so that the area of the unpopular and outdated clay pitch was now "over".

The planners recognized the potential of the area for a multifunctional water landscape. After removing the old pond layer and re-profiling the subsoil, an organically shaped water area was created that blends harmoniously into the surrounding landscape and forms the scenic highlight of the district.

The water is fed by an ingenious system that collects and purifies rainwater from the entire district. Different water depths create different ecological niches for amphibians, water birds and aquatic plants.

Space for all

The transformation of the Tennenplatz in Laer as part of Ostpark Bochum is exemplary of the innovative linking of the two new residential districts through green infrastructure, incorporating existing areas that are no longer in use.

The conversion brings many ecological benefits. A much broader section of the population benefits socially: while the grass pitch was reserved for soccer, the water landscape is now open to everyone. Families relax on the banks, children play and joggers appreciate the highly attractive route.

The 29 hectares of open space make Ostpark Bochum a showcase project for sustainable urban planning in Germany: sustainable, climate-resilient and socially inclusive.