Frankfurt/Wiesbaden - The Hessian State Government and the City of Frankfurt have given the go-ahead for a pioneering construction project: The Frankfurt Culture Campus is being built on the former university site in Bockenheim - a centre that combines art, science and living in a unique way.
Minister President Boris Rhein emphasised the scope of the project at the presentation of the plans on Monday: "With the new building for the University of Music and Performing Arts (HfMDK) as the centrepiece of the cultural campus, a long-held vision is taking shape. We are creating a state-of-the-art centre for artistic education and excellence and at the same time fulfilling our promise to shape the city and state together for the cultural future."
The Kulturcampus will not only provide the university with long-term planning security, but will also give the city of Frankfurt new impetus. Frankfurt's Lord Mayor Mike Josef spoke of a "future project with radiance for the entire city". The decision to locate the HfMDK in Bockenheim is an important step towards revitalising the district following the departure of Goethe University: "The pieces of the puzzle are falling into place. The cultural campus will be a lively meeting place that integrates itself into the neighbourhood."
An open space for art and encounters
In addition to the university, the cultural campus will also facilitate social and cultural synergies. Science Minister Timon Gremmels emphasised the openness of the project: "We are not only establishing a place for high culture and scientific excellence, but also creating space for socioculture, encounters and student life." Among other things, affordable living space for students is planned - a contribution to relieving the tight housing market.
Ina Hartwig, Head of the Department of Culture, emphasised the importance of the Frankfurt LAB, which is to be created as another central element of the Kulturcampus. "Performing arts and music come together here, young artists find space for their work and at the same time the LAB opens up to the neighbourhood."
Architectural competition and funding secured
The structural realisation of the Kulturcampus will take place as part of an architectural competition to be held by the state of Hesse later this year. Funding for the new HfMDK building has been secured with 170 million euros from the HEUREKA university building programme. Since 2008, the state has been using this programme to support university construction projects in Hesse with a total volume of 5.7 billion euros until 2031.
With the final decision on the location for the HfMDK, the city of Frankfurt can also start the detailed planning of the Frankfurt LAB. A new building with a rehearsal stage and large hall is to be built on the site of the former art library, which will significantly improve the spatial conditions for artists compared to the previous use.
The Kulturcampus will create a new, vibrant centre for art, science and urban life in Frankfurt - a place that will have a lasting impact on the city and its cultural landscape.
