Jena-Lobeda/Neulobeda (17.02.2026) – It is one of the most striking buildings in the district and has been the subject of intense discussion for some time: The “Alte Schwimmhalle” in Lobeda is the focus of the upcoming meeting of the Neulobeda district council. Tomorrow, Wednesday, the course for future use is to be set further.
The Saale Betreuungswerk der Lebenshilfe Jena celebrated the topping-out ceremony for the expansion of its housing project in Jena-Winzerla. By adding floors to the existing building “An der Kelter,” new inclusive living space is being created.
The Neulobeda District Council invites the public to a meeting on February 18, 2026, to discuss the reuse concept for the ‘Alte Schwimmhalle’ and present results from recent urban development workshops.
To address the housing shortage, the Jena city administration has presented local guidelines for the implementation of the federal “Bauturbo” law, aiming to simplify and accelerate construction projects.
Once facing high vacancy rates and decay, the Columbuscenter in Jena-Winzerla is showing signs of recovery. With ground-floor occupancy approaching 50% and the opening of new shops like MD Alibabamarkt, this neighborhood hub is fighting for a comeback. Discover how new renovation plans and a fresh mix of tenants aim to revitalize this essential local supply center and improve the quality of life for the district’s residents.
In a decisive 6-2 vote, the Winzerla district council has rejected plans for a new community encounter center. Instead of a new building, local representatives are urging the city of Jena to repurpose the existing Goetheschule. This move highlights a growing preference for sustainable urban development and signals a potential shift in the neighborhood’s social infrastructure planning.
Jena is accelerating its housing development. The city administration has detailed new guidelines for the federal ‘Bauturbo’ law, aimed at streamlining building permits. With the housing market under pressure, these measures could significantly speed up construction projects across the city. A final decision by the Stadtrat is expected in April, potentially marking a major turning point for local urban development in 2026.
A dedicated group of citizens in Jena-Nord aims to transform two vacant university buildings on Steubenstraße into a self-managed housing project. By utilizing a non-speculative rental model, the initiative seeks to provide long-term affordable living space for families and individuals. This community-driven approach offers a creative solution to Jena’s housing shortage, revitalizing urban structures while bypassing the traditional real estate market.
Jena’s housing market remains strained, but a recent project demonstrates a sustainable solution. By converting a previously unused attic space, the city has gained room for eight additional residents. This approach to urban densification offers a roadmap for creating high-quality living spaces within existing structures, bypassing the geographical limitations of the Saale valley and addressing the local housing shortage effectively.
