GAG Immobilien AG is shaping urban development in the centre of Cologne-Porz, specifically at the intersection of Hauptstraße and Poststraße. At this long-discussed location, the start of construction for a new build is tentatively scheduled for October 2026, provided the necessary funding commitment is received. Completion of the project is expected in the second half of 2028.
The project at this distinctive site in Porz has occupied GAG Immobilien AG for several years. At the end of 2019, the company acquired the entire plot, including an Art Nouveau corner building erected around 1900. This building was originally intended to be integrated into the development of the surrounding area. Even at the time of purchase, due to the very poor structural condition, a complete renovation of the long-vacant building was no longer feasible. Preservation of the street-facing facades was originally defined as the primary objective.
Project Development and Reorientation
While the new construction on the remaining part of the plot, comprising approximately 76 publicly funded residential units, was implemented as planned and completed in 2023, more detailed analyses of the corner building revealed more severe structural damage than initially assumed. This led to the realisation in early 2024 that a preservation-compliant renovation of the facades would no longer be economically viable.
GAG Immobilien AG subsequently decided on a new build that is intended to echo the historic appearance and an almost identical building volume of the original Art Nouveau house. The removal of the former listed building from the heritage list constituted a first formal step for this reorientation. The imminent new build will adapt the aesthetics of the previous building and simultaneously create a significant landmark in the district. The project includes the realisation of three publicly funded flats and a small commercial unit at this urbanistically prominent location.
Christian Eiff, Board Member of GAG, emphasised that this project sends an important urban development signal. He explained that a new and viable perspective for the further development of the Porz centre is emerging at this intensively discussed location.
