Series on the 2023/2024 budget
Basketball court at Konkordiapark gets a new look
The idea of campaigning for the redesign of the basketball court at Konkordiapark arose from Andre Zimpel's passion for basketball. As a big fan and art and culture enthusiast, he wants to generate attention for Chemnitz with the planned project. In this interview, he provides background information on the Konkordiapark redevelopment project.
You were the initiator of the idea to redesign the basketball court at Konkordiapark. Why is there a need for action?
Andre Zimpel: Konkordiapark is the most legendary and best-known basketball court in Chemnitz. It is very centrally located and has been there for over 20 years. It's time for a renovation. It is very important to us that the whole thing also becomes an art object and generates attention for the city. The square should be another landmark alongside the colourful Esse. There is also a need for high-quality basketball courts in our city. Chemnitz is a basketball city and people like to play basketball.
Who else is behind this project?
To see if other people like the idea, I made a short video and called for people to show their support. Over 1,800 people got in touch and said that they liked the project. The video was viewed over 25,000 times on various platforms. This shows that the idea is attracting attention and is supported by many people, both children and young people as well as older people. Without their help, none of this would have been possible. I am really grateful for this support and hope that it continues. Together we can show that this is a very exciting project and can achieve the desired effect that we all hope for.
What equipment will the new square have?
The aim is to completely renovate the old court and build a new full-size basketball court. The plan is to use a high-quality tartan floor that is non-slip and also has an attractive design. That is our main focus. We also want to install sensible baskets. We are also planning beautiful benches, lots of trees and plenty of greenery. In the end, the entire Konkordiapark will be remodelled.
When will the work on the basketball court begin?
Due to the approval of the budget for the city of Chemnitz, a budget for the next two years is initially planned for this project. We are also receiving financial support from the Free State. This means that we will be able to finalise the planning this year and hopefully start construction next year.
How will the basketball court at Konkordiapark be used in the future?
The court will of course be used for basketball games. Tournaments can also be organised. My vision for the basketball court is a grandstand for 500 to 600 people. But there's no money for that at the moment. Concerts and other events can also take place on the stage. With two courts, it will also be possible for twice as many people as before to use the court in the future.
The most important things at a glance:
- Investment amount by city council resolution: around 1,000,000 euros
- Submitters in the city council: FDP, CDU, Die Linke/Die PARTEI, B90/Die Grünen, SPD
- The basketball court at Konkordiapark has existed for more than 20 years.
- The planned design includes a new tartan surface and basketball hoops.
- Earth will be piled up to separate the park from the two main roads, Leipziger Strasse and Hartmannstrasse. This is intended to make the park more secluded, quieter and more natural.
