Twenty-three hectares of green. That’s the size of Bremen’s largest park. Welcome to Park Links der Weser. Did you know this expansive green space wasn’t always a park? Its story begins not with shovels and seeds but with a determined man named Karl Riedemann. Back in 1958 he proposed a ‘citizen’s park’ a vast green lung on Bremen’s western side.
For years his vision faced obstacles. Plans for a massive highway and even a cemetery threatened to bury his dream. Then in 1963 Bremen’s building senator envisioned a second Bürgerpark. This sparked renewed hope. However the highway and railway plans remained. It wasn’t until 1976 that the Verein Park links der Weser was founded. The group’s fight was far from over. A legal battle over the very name Bürgerpark ensued. Ultimately the group prevailed. They renamed themselves Verein Park links der Weser.
A crucial turning point arrived with Bremen’s airport. Plans to fully utilize the existing runway necessitated moving the Ochtum River. This presented a unique opportunity. Local politicians seized it. They successfully negotiated to scrap the highway and railway plans in exchange for a large-scale park.
Finally in 1979 the planning for Park Links der Weser began. Planting efforts started soon after. In 1983 the Achterfeldweg and Hermann-Allmers-Hill were created. The landscape continued to evolve. In 1989 and 1990 the Ochtum was relocated. The river now meanders naturally with carefully designed banks. This became the backbone of the “Ochtumpark” section.
The park expanded steadily. Areas north of the B75 were developed. Collaboration with the neighboring community of Stuhr led to the development of green spaces between Hohenhorster See and Hohenhorster Weg. A former horse farm became the park association’s headquarters.
Further paths bridges and green spaces were added. A nature reserve was established north of the railway. An observation tower allows for birdwatching and nature appreciation. A nature experience project at the Huchtinger Fleet was completed in phases from 2003 to 2016. A connection from the Achterfeldweg to the Roland Center was finished by August 2015.
Today Park Links der Weser is a remarkable achievement. Although the B75 still divides the park efforts continue to connect its two halves. Plans are underway to improve connections with Stuhr. The park remains a dynamic place. New ponds and planting areas were added in 2020 and 2021. Even a sculpture of Bremen’s Town Musicians was created from a fallen beech tree in 2018.
With approximately 1500 members the Verein Park links der Weser continues its stewardship. This vital organization ensures the park’s ongoing development and conservation. So next time you’re in Bremen take a stroll through this exceptional green space. Enjoy the legacy of vision determination and collaboration. Enjoy Park Links der Weser.