Individuals looking for asylum. - Potsdam: Ideal Location for Refugee Housing
Instead of the intended housing for refugees on the edge of Potsdam, a nearby resident has made a last-minute appeal to the Administrative Court in Potsdam. The target of the appeal is the green light for converting the previously commercial establishment. Stopping the project temporarily is the goal.
Potsdam plans to inaugurate the accommodation in the third quarter of 2024, as per their statement. The precise schedule for the remodeling work, however, hinges on contractual questions, explained a representative of the city administration. The outcome of the urgent proceedings will also affect the actual opening time. "We do not share the legal opinion of the petitioners."
Several residents voice feelings of exclusion from the plans for the accommodation. On the online platform change.org, a petition asserts that officials are "creating facts without any citizen participation." Additionally, residents allege deceit regarding the number of accommodations. In the petition, a genuine citizen participation is sought.
The project's capacity stands at accommodating up to 90 people, as per the city administration spokesperson. However, the official agreement mandates a maximum of 60 people at the facility. The absence of participation opportunities is not an issue for the city. "The concerned councilor has already pledged to organize another meeting as soon as the project details are cleared up," affirmed the spokesperson. The pledge holds.
