It is a problem affecting many municipalities: the overall population is aging, while at the same time shops and leisure facilities are disappearing in the districts. The opportunities to use public transportation are sometimes limited and come with costs. The city of Püttlingen wants to counter this trend. Through a shared meeting point in a familiar environment, the quality of life for citizens in their traditional homes should be maintained. This place is intended not only to foster community but also to bring (leisure) offerings from the city center to the district. In Herchenbach, all the conditions for a district meeting point are met: a village community center in a central location with a playground as well as the club and bakehouse of the Herchenbach Fruit and Gardening Association.
Already in 2020, the residents of Herchenbach were surveyed about their interest in and ideas for such a meeting place through a questionnaire. Topics such as cultural activities, communal lunch, gymnastics, and hiking were at the top of the list. There is also a strong willingness to volunteer for the village community. "The village community center in a central location of Herchenbach is a wonderful site for a district meeting place. I thank the OGV Herchenbach, which is willing to make these premises available to the village community and actively supports the project," said Mayor Denise Klein. The village community center is now to be expanded first. The total costs are expected to amount to EUR 368,000. For this purpose, the city is receiving a grant of EUR 298,052.50 from the Ministry for Environment, Climate, Mobility, Agriculture and Consumer Protection from the "Improvement of Agricultural Structure and Coastal Protection" program - GAK. Additionally, a needs-based allocation of EUR 17,532.50 is being provided by the Ministry of the Interior, Building and Sports. The city of Püttlingen's own contribution amounts to EUR 35,065.00.
The plans have been completed and the approval notice from the Ministry of Environment has been received. Now, the trades can be tendered and awarded. Provided there are no delays due to the current geopolitical situation,
completion is expected next year.
