Visualization of Emschermündung's Courtyard Layout Plans
Dinslaken: Proposed Expansion of Hof Emschermündung
The historic Hofanlage Emschermündung, a well-known learning and meeting place in Dinslaken, is set for an expansion, as per plans from the Emschergenossenschaft.
For quite some time, the Emscher has been channeling into the Rhine via the redesigned mouth in Eppinghoven. However, the area surrounding Hof Emschermündung is set to undergo further changes. Current discussions within local Dinslakener politics involve these plans, which also encompass construction work.
Located at the intersection of the Emscher Way and the Rhine Cycle Route, the Hof Emschermündung is poised for expansion and modernization as part of the International Garden Exhibition 2027 (IGA). As per documents from the city administration, the Hof currently functions as a significant tourist attraction and educational site. The planned modifications aim to ensure that these objectives continue to be achieved, by adapting the existing infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of visitors, preserving the historical structure of the Hof, and creating new spaces for encounter, leisure, and education.
The redesign includes the construction of a new building, designed to enclose an existing walnut tree and an inner courtyard. This area is intended to serve as the heart of the Hof, catering to visitors and hosting events. Additionally, a new building consisting of two interconnected bodies of different heights will supplement the existing structures. The ground floor of this building will house the existing gastronomy, which will be expanded to accommodate an increased number of visitors. On the upper floor of this building, a bright seminar room with a south-west-facing green roof terrace is planned. Both the gastronomy and the seminar room will feature large glass elements, allowing for a direct connection between the natural surroundings and the building's interior. The new modern café and visitor center will act as a hub for tourists and recreation seekers.
Parking facilities at Hof Emschermündung will not be accessible by car, with the exception of operational purposes. Visitors can reach the expanded visitor center on foot or by bicycle via the street "Am Hagelkreuz". Parking spaces are, therefore, planned on the Hagelstraße. A total of 58 parking spaces for cars, 45 parking spaces for bicycles, and a bicycle repair station are planned. Furthermore, charging stations for electric cars and e-bikes are included in the Emschergenossenschaft's concept. The concept provides for six barrier-free parking spaces for cars and two parking spaces for minibuses in the entrance and exit area "Hagelstraße". The area intended for parking spaces is to be designed as naturally as possible, with minimal surface sealing, to retain the character of a green area.
The Planning and Urban Development Committee will make decisions regarding this plan on Monday, June 2nd, during a meeting held in the council chamber at 5 PM.
Context: Hof Emschermündung is situated near where the Emscher River flows into the Rhine, in the district of Dinslaken. Recent years have seen increased attention to flood protection, ecological restoration, and recreational facilities in the broader Emscher region, following major modernization projects like the Emscher Conversion.
In aligning with the planned expansion of Hof Emschermündung, there is a growing focus on promoting a sustainable lifestyle within the home-and-garden context. The new visitor center, complete with modern café and eco-friendly parking facilities, encourages visitors to travel by foot or bicycle, fostering a more green and sustainable approach towards home-and-garden living. Furthermore, the adaptive modifications aim to preserve the historical structure of the Hof, fostering a harmonious blend of tradition and sustainability in the heart of Dinslaken.
