Karlsruhe residents protest vacancy of Hotel Residenz

The Aktionsbündnis Wohnen organized a demonstration in Karlsruhe on October 17, 2026, to protest the long-term vacancy of the Hotel Residenz near the main station. Protesters marched from Werderplatz through the Südstadt to the building, performing a symbolic groundbreaking ceremony to advocate for the site's conversion into affordable housing.

The initiative argues that the building, owned by the Gröner Family Group, has remained vacant for approximately two years and is showing signs of neglect. The group proposes repurposing the structure to support students, apprentices, single parents, the elderly, and refugees.

The Gröner Family Group responded to the criticism, stating that the building was used to house Ukrainian refugees in 2022, which delayed original plans. The company cited rising construction and financing costs, along with extensive reviews, as further obstacles. However, the company noted that the city of Karlsruhe approved a new building application in August 2026.