Opposition to Residential Developments on Tempelhofer Field by The Greens
Green Party in Berlin Criticizes Focus on Tempelhofer Feld Development
The Green Party in Berlin has expressed criticism towards the city's ruling CDU-SPD coalition, accusing them of focusing on development plans around Tempelhofer Feld instead of progressing on other housing projects and delivering affordable housing. The Greens describe the debate on Tempelhofer Feld as a "distraction" from the coalition's failure to implement actual construction projects in places like Schumacherquartier (Tegel), Molkenmarkt (Mitte), and Güterbahnhof (Köpenick) [1].
Green Party faction leader Werner Graf argues that Berlin's issue is not a lack of land but poor implementation of building projects [1][2][3][4]. Graf accuses the ruling coalition of unnecessary discussions about the possible development of Tempelhofer Feld, which serves as a crucial heat sink and a place of great biodiversity, cooling Berlin at night after hot summer days [2]. The field also offers various activities such as kitesurfing, grilling, theater courses, and Nordic walking [5].
Graf praises the development of Tempelhofer Feld, citing the air castle and its offerings for children as an example [6]. However, he regrets the lack of large events in Berlin, citing the absence of Taylor Swift and Adele as an example, and suggests discussing ways to use existing halls and the forecourt of Tempelhofer Feld for large concerts [7].
On the other hand, Berlin's ruling mayor, Kai Wegner, supports more speed in the event of a possible edge development of Tempelhofer Feld and plans to ask Berliners in 2026 how they wish the field to be developed [8]. The CDU and SPD, however, are pushing for Tempelhofer Feld's development due to the housing shortage, despite the fact that they would not create affordable housing if they built on the field, with rents of 25 to 30 euros per square meter [9].
In a referendum in 2014, the former airport was not built on, and the Greens continue to emphasize the importance of Tempelhofer Feld for sports, relaxation, and ecological reasons [10]. The Green politician Werner Graf emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that considers both the city's housing needs and the preservation of green spaces like Tempelhofer Feld.
- The Green Party deplores the CDU-SPD coalition's prioritization of Tempelhofer Feld's development over other housing projects and the delivery of affordable housing, increasing the focus on environmental-science issues in Berlin's policy-and-legislation.
- In the wake of Berlin's housing crisis, Green Party leader Werner Graf contends that the issue is not a lack of land, but rather poor implementation of building projects and finance management in real-estate development.
- While praising some aspects of Tempelhofer Feld's development, such as the air castle and child-friendly activities, Graf points out that the field's biodiversity and importance as a heat sink should be considered before any major investments in construction or real-estate development.
- Given Tempelhofer Feld's potential to serve as a venue for large events, such as concerts featuring popular artists like Taylor Swift and Adele, the Greens propose considering alternative uses for the field to contribute to the general-news and entertainment sectors while addressing the city's housing needs.
- As Berlin's ruling mayor Kai Wegner advocates for faster Tempelhofer Feld development, the Green Party reiterates their stance from the 2014 referendum, emphasizing the field's significance for sports, relaxation, and ecological preservation in the context of increasing investments in science and environmental-science projects.
