Finance Senator: Berlin can dispose of SEZ again
According to Finance Senator Stefan Evers (CDU), the years-long legal dispute over the use of the former sports and recreation center (SEZ) in Berlin-Friedrichshain has come to an end. The state can now once again dispose of the property on Landsberger Allee, which was sold 20 years ago, and redevelop it, Evers announced on Friday. According to the current development plan, around 500 apartments and a new school are planned there.
The property was sold to an investor by the state in 2003. Since 2016, there has been a dispute in court as to whether the buyer at the time had complied with its contractual obligations. In 2022, the Court of Appeal ruled that the investor had to return the SEZ site to the state. According to the tax authorities, the Federal Court of Justice has now dismissed the so-called non-admission appeal against this decision. This means that the ruling of the Court of Appeal remains in place. The details of the return of the site and its further development will be clarified in the near future.
"The SEZ will be returned to the state of Berlin and will finally benefit Berliners again," explained Evers. "This is great news. I would like to thank all those involved who have put their heart and soul into defending the interests of the general public in this far too long legal dispute. Now it's all about working together to make the best of this area for Berlin."
The return of the SEZ to Berlin's control opens up opportunities for its redevelopment in the real estate market. With the Senate's plans to build around 500 apartments and a new school, residents will have more living options and improved facilities during their leisure time.
Source: www.dpa.com
