Leipzig introduces guide for repurposing vacant municipal buildings

The City of Leipzig has released a new guide designed to facilitate the cultural repurposing of vacant municipal properties. The guide utilizes a phased model to transform unused urban buildings into vibrant spaces for art and culture through transparent, reliable, and inter-departmental coordination.

Developed following the ‘RaumVisionen’ workshop and the ‘StadtVisionen’ conference, the initiative aims to address issues such as fragmented knowledge and a lack of transparency in administrative processes. The guide is intended to support public-interest organizations by providing a structured approach and clearer role distribution.

Dr. Skadi Jennicke, Mayor and Deputy for Culture, stated that the guide should help open new paths to turn vacancies into lively cultural sites. However, the city noted that repurposing is only possible if no other use for the property is planned, and municipal funds will not be provided for the necessary renovations.