From 12 noon to 6 p.m., interested parties had the opportunity to contribute their ideas at various stations. Visitors were able to exchange their opinions on the inner cities for a free drink at a "participation bar", collect their suggestions on large maps and posters or even get hands-on to visualize their visions with the help of small models. Representatives from the city administration and the Salzgitter Economic and Innovation Promotion Agency (WIS) were always on hand to exchange ideas.
In Lebenstedt, on September 30, around 150 citizens contributed their own ideas. Among them were some young people who made small models of their ideas. Iyabo Kacmarek took part in the event as a special guest. She told those present about her experiences as managing director of "Unter einem Dach gUG", which she uses to revitalize Hanover's city centre through various social projects in the areas of integration and cultural participation. During the discussions, it became clear that the people of Lebenstedt would like to see even more greenery, cleanliness and consumer-free spaces in their city center. However, many also expressed the hope that the owners of some properties could renovate their facades.
Around 250 citizens took part in the workshop in Salzgitter-Bad on October 7. A round table discussion between the participants, Dr. Björn Gläser from WIS and Andreas Budde, attracted particular attention. As Managing Director of Stadtentwicklungsgesellschaft Solingen GmbH, Andreas Budde reported on his experiences with the "glass workshop", a project for new uses of vacant properties. Among other things, those present expressed their desire for more places for young people to spend time and more accessibility. The idea of creating a multifunctional space that could be used jointly by various associations for their social and cultural purposes was particularly well received.
The workshops are part of the process to create inner city concepts for Lebenstedt and Salzgitter-Bad, which is being supported with funds from the federal funding program "Sustainable inner cities and centers". Two kick-off events, an online survey and expert interviews have already taken place. In addition, so-called "flying reporters" have already collected voices and opinions from passers-by. All of the information gained from this has been incorporated into the creation of the concepts.
