The polisKEYNOTES in the former Bundeswehr high-rise building offered a unique view over Bremen – and at the same time over the challenges facing the housing market. Experts shared their experiences from existing and new construction projects and presented innovative approaches for vibrant neighbourhoods. Questions of responsibility, pragmatic action and cooperation were discussed intensively on the podium.

In the first keynote speech of the evening, Michael Ziller set a clear tone:

Michael Ziller reported on the cooperative project ‘Gelber Block’ in Munich's Schwanthalerhöhe district, which focuses on existing buildings. By adding extra storeys, as in this project, ‘2 million additional flats could be created in Germany.’ Multi-storey car parks, Kaufhof properties and similar structures can be repurposed – ‘it's all very easy to combine.’

Under the title ‘The future lies in existing buildings’, he emphasised the need to reduce bureaucracy and streamline regulations: ‘Haven't we gone too far in this regard?’ He advocated for simpler, cheaper and CO2-neutral construction without compromising on quality. He also highlighted the advantages of a spirit of partnership between private and public institutions.

He concluded his presentation with an appeal:

At the end of the evening, it became clear that courage, pragmatism and a willingness to cooperate are palpable – and give cause for optimism.

Click here for the full report on the polisKEYNOTES event held on 6 November in Bremen.