For the development of the so-called Tuchtinsel and the eastern area of Berliner Allee in Düsseldorf, the project developer Midstad and the state capital Düsseldorf are initiating a qualification procedure. This procedure involves internationally recognised planning and architectural firms. A public kick-off event took place on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, for the Schadowstraße/Berliner Allee planning area, where the public was given the opportunity for active participation.
The event, held at the premises of the Chamber of Industry and Commerce, allowed interested citizens to contribute their ideas and suggestions to the development process. Parallel online participation supplemented this format. Among other things, citizens expressed a desire for high-quality architecture that blends harmoniously into the existing cityscape. The creation of clearly structured open spaces to improve the quality of stay, as well as the active consideration of climate aspects, were also demanded.
Another central aspect of the feedback concerned the demand for added value for the urban community. This is to be achieved through a balanced mix of commercial and non-commercial offerings. The collected results of this public participation are crucial for the elaboration of the task definition for the qualification procedure, which is expected to be approved by the political committees in June or July 2026. Documentation of the kick-off event is available via the website www.midstad-duesseldorf-tuchtinsel.de.
Public participation as an integral part of the planning process
Ms. Cornelia Zuschke, Councillor for Planning, Building, Housing, Property Management and Mobility, commented on the extensive engagement of citizens. She emphasised that the high number of participants confirmed the strong interest in active urban design. The contributions of the citizens, whom she described as local experts, provided valuable insights and perspectives for the planning teams. Ms. Zuschke highlighted that designs are expected which form an innovative and forward-looking urban component, completing the comprehensive transformation process around the Kö-Bogen.
A public presentation of the submitted designs is planned for 15 December 2026, even before the final jury meeting. The comments and suggestions made at this presentation will serve as an additional basis for decision-making for the jury. Furthermore, two representatives of the citizenry are involved in the entire process and also participate in the jury meetings to ensure a continuous citizen perspective. Following the procedure, a public exhibition of the awarded designs is envisaged.
