The Westend Synagogue
Ms. Stefanie Käse
fone: +49 (0)69 212 31264
Project description
Reason for planning
The Westend Synagogue is one of the few Jewish places of worship to have survived World War II more or less unscathed. Following makeshift renovation work it was re-consecrated in 1950, before between 1989 and 1994 being restored in line with heritage stipulations. The Westend Synagogue is the largest in Frankfurt and is the center of the local Jewish community.
The Synagogue is unfortunately one of the buildings in Frankfurt that are at risk. For this reason, 24/7 police protection is provided for the facility. At the moment numerous, provisional concrete barriers and bollards on the road demarcate the security zone around the building complex.
In future, these concrete barriers will be replaced by permanent security features integrated into the streetscape. The latter will also be redeveloped such as to ensure the surroundings befit the importance of the synagogue.
Development area
The area earmarked for redevelopment embraces the roads around the synagogue and the attached buildings, as highlighted in the aerial view. It measures around 2,500 sq. m. On Altkönigstrasse it extends as far as Liebigstrasse. On Friedrichstrasse it goes as far as the building at no. 27. The redevelopment of these roads is part of the planning assignment.
Planning objective
As part of the “Making Frankfurt More Attractive” program, an overall concept will be developed aimed at ensuring the synagogue has surroundings and an approach worthy of its status. The plan is also to enhance the surrounding roads and integrate the security features as discreetly as possible. A clear planning objective is also as far as possible to preserve and protect the marvelous old trees so characteristic of the Westend. Further requirements include the consideration of heritage-related concerns (the synagogue is a cultural monument), preserving the existing traffic system and guaranteeing accessibility.
Project progress
Next planning steps:
- Examination of the safety concept
- Entry into the preparation of a construction and financing proposal
7 May 7, 2020: Preliminary planning resolution § 5603 of the City Council on the municipal bill M 51/2020 and release of further planning funds for the continuation of the project.
September 2019: Completion of the preliminary planning phase and submission of municipal bill M 51/2020.
2017 - 2019: Preliminary planning phase with preliminary investigations and coordination on the feasibility of the design idea.
April 2017:
- Selection committee names design by planning office Otfried Ipach Landschaftsarchitekt BDLA (now renamed IPACH MAYERHOFER Landschaftsarchitekten PartGmbB) as the best design for further planning
- Composition of the selection committee: representatives of the Jewish community, independent experts, local council representatives, representatives of the city administration
January 2017: Invited planning offices develop three designs as part of a competitive process for the surrounding street space at the Westend synagogue