Bouwfonds Immobilienentwicklung (BPD) celebrated the official start of development work for the "Katharinenhöfe" residential quarter on Friday, 14 August 2026, together with representatives of the City of Willich, including Mayor Christian Pakusch. This project, which is being constructed on the former site of the Katharinen-Hospital on Bahnstraße, marks a significant step in the urban development of Alt-Willich. The concept envisages the creation of new housing in a central location, complemented by the integration of green spaces and a direct connection to the urban infrastructure.
As part of the first construction phase, BPD is constructing four multi-family houses, which will comprise a total of 48 freehold flats. These residential units, ranging in size from 56 to 123 square metres, are designed as two- to four-room flats. Each flat will feature a balcony, a loggia, a terrace or a private garden. The fittings include underfloor heating, real wood parquet flooring, electric roller shutters and flush-to-floor tiled showers, underscoring the project's high standard.
The "Katharinenhöfe" overall project envisages the realisation of a total of 72 freehold flats in three construction phases. These units are grouped around a central quarter square, which connects to the adjacent Konrad-Adenauer-Park. Mayor Christian Pakusch emphasised that the "Katharinenhöfe" represent an important building block for the further development of Alt-Willich. He highlighted that new housing is being created on a historic site in a central location, connected with green spaces and short distances to the city and the park. The groundbreaking ceremony symbolises the transition from the planning to the implementation phase, and thus a significant step for the development of this site. The former hospital area will thus be further developed into a green, mixed-use quarter.
All freehold flats being built comply with Efficiency House Standard 55. The quarter's mobility concept is geared towards a largely car-free interior. Residents' car parking spaces will be exclusively located in underground car parks. In addition, approximately 370 bicycle parking spaces and comprehensive provisions for electromobility are planned: all car parking spaces can be prepared for the installation of charging stations for electric vehicles. The central location of the quarter allows for short distances to local amenities, public institutions and public transport (ÖPNV).
Melanie Sauerbier, Head of Region West at BPD, explained that the "Katharinenhöfe" project is developing a residential quarter that combines a central location with a high quality of stay. The proximity to the city centre, direct access to the Konrad-Adenauer-Park, and the creation of new green and open spaces are intended to create an attractive living environment for various life situations. She noted that with the commencement of the development work, the quarter is now taking shape.
Thomas Trendelkamp, Head of Project Development Region West at BPD, added that the planning of the "Katharinenhöfe" focused on developing the area into a vibrant quarter. The arrangement of the buildings around the future quarter square is designed to create space for encounters and neighbourly exchange. In combination with the largely car-free interior of the quarter, this creates an attractive living environment.
