Forstenwalde in Focus: Urban Development and Construction Planning in February 2026

Urban Development in Forstenwalde: Current Priorities and Projects

In February 2026, the town of Forstenwalde/Spree continued its work on urban construction planning and infrastructure development with determination. The Committee for Urban Development met on 10.02.2026 to discuss several central zoning plans and urban development initiatives. The discussions reflect the diversity and complexity of modern urban development – ranging from private housing projects to cultural and social measures.

Zoning Plan No. 132: Rauener Kirchweg – Infill Development and Climate Protection

Zoning Plan No. 132 "Rauener Kirchweg" is part of the city's strategy for infill development. Covering an area of approximately 0.4 hectares in the municipal area of Forstenwalde/Spree, the project aims at the reuse of existing land. The landowner has presented two development options: one including single-family and semi-detached houses, and the other involving multi-family buildings.

Particular features of the plan include measures for energy- and climate-conscious urban planning – such as photovoltaic roof coverage, tree planting, and rainwater infiltration. The procedure was conducted under the accelerated process according to § 13a of the German Building Code (BauGB), without the need for an environmental assessment. The costs of the procedure are borne by the landowner, thereby relieving the city's budget.

Grocery Store Plans: Rudolf-Breitscheid-Straße and Triftstraße

Two additional zoning plans were also in focus: the Simple Zoning Plan No. V "Expansion of the Grocery Store at Rudolf-Breitscheid-Straße" and the Project-Specific Zoning Plan No. 68 "Grocery Store at Triftstraße." Both projects concern the expansion of existing grocery stores and new developments in industrial zones.

While the grocery store on Rudolf-Breitscheid-Straße is to be expanded by approximately 200 square meters of retail space, a special area with the designated purpose of "grocery store" is planned for Triftstraße. The projects follow the accelerated procedure under § 13a BauGB and are part of the city's planning, which also considers climate protection measures such as green roofs and rainwater management.

DIE LINKE. Initiates Development of the Railway Station Area

Alongside the actual construction plans, a political initiative was also in the spotlight: the motion from the DIE LINKE. faction to revitalize the railway station area and Eisenbahnstraße. The goal is to activate the station building and the surrounding street through cultural and social offerings. Proposed measures include the establishment of a citizens' initiative "Unser Bahnhof," a cultural festival, and the use of the vacant lot at Eisenbahnstraße 118 as a PopUpPark.

The measures are to be implemented through participatory planning involving residents, associations, and experts. Climate protection is also a key issue here – through the promotion of walking and cycling as well as e-mobility. Support in securing funding is also requested.

Outlook: Urban Development as a Process of Co-Creation

The February session of the Urban Development Committee in Forstenwalde shows that urban development is not only a technical, but also a political and social project. The combination of private initiative, state planning, and civic engagement is crucial for the city's future. With projects such as the Rauener Kirchweg, the grocery store plans, and the railway station area development, Forstenwalde/Spree is not only being physically, but also socially and culturally developed.