Committee has been part of the planning process for the program.
The city of Aschaffenburg, known for its vibrant cultural scene and the internationally acclaimed Kirchner House Museum, has been working diligently for over two decades to improve its Central Station quarter, often referred to as a "hotspot" due to public order issues.
Recently, a joint walking tour was conducted by the Bavarian State Criminal Police Office's "Urban Crime Prevention" department. The tour aimed to inspect and address concerns in the station quarter, particularly in littered and dark corners, as well as the situation on Kleberstraße, where recent increases in littering and disputes have been observed.
The first meeting between employees of the LKA, representatives of the Bavarian Police Headquarters Unterfranken, Aschaffenburg's Mayor Jürgen Herzing, and the head of the department for urban planning and climate management, Daniel Altemeyer-Bartscher, was held to discuss this approach. Mayor Herzing found the discussions very productive, appreciating the outside perspective and new approaches for urban improvement.
During the tour, hotspots for public order offenses were identified, and discussions were held on how to improve various locations in the station quarter through urban redesign. Police Director Frank Eckardt confirmed the productivity of the discussions, stating that small architectural measures can prevent fear and reduce opportunities for crime.
The "Art in the Quarter" action has been established to beautify the area, while the "Vibrant and Attractive Station Quarter" association is active in the city, working towards the same goal. The city has also successfully implemented the "Social City" program in 2003, which focuses on social integration and community development.
The cities of Munich and Mannheim have been highlighted in a report by the Bavarian State Police security authority as examples of urban crime prevention. They are praised for their strategic approach and comprehensive security architecture, serving as a model for many other cities. Leipzig is also noted within a network context related to communal crime prevention efforts.
In response, the Bavarian State Criminal Police Office's "Urban Crime Prevention" department has proposed a new approach to prevent crime and strengthen security in public spaces. A report with recommendations for action will be prepared and discussed with stakeholders in the station area.
Notably, a new main station building and the redesign of Ludwigstraße are part of the ongoing efforts to revitalise the station quarter. The city continues to strive for a safer, more attractive, and welcoming environment for its residents and visitors.
