Bottrop is a small city of the Ruhr area with a relative dynamic town centre. But there are lots of vacant and cheap bargain shops, a declining and aging population, and unsafe peripheral car traffic. What the centre needs is more green public spaces, a new attractive inner city living concept and activities for the youth.
The idea is to imagine what the inhabitants would have developed as common vision. Bottrop has grown at a human scale and this is its biggest strength. The new central square is the scene for diverse activities and becomes the biggest meeting place of the city.
A story is build around the old horses market of Bottrop. The horse becomes the symbol of the city and as a statue, the meeting point in the centre. That one is placed at a central car park at the back of the shops, that is transformed into a lively spot for activities for different populations: kids, youngsters, seniors⦠This creates a sense of safety, and also community. Other public spaces are created: a food corner, a community garden, shared streets.
The central carpark is moved to the side of the centre and the dangerous road is reduced to a bus lane. Urban furniture is set regularly along a 1km track around the centre.
To create density and offer modern housing for younger people, new houses are developed on the top of the roofs of the extensions of the shops. New entrances are set at the back of the 1st floor of shops so current empty top floors can be used as accommodations.
