Nordhorn in Focus – What February 2026 Set in Motion

Climate Protection and the Environment: Nordhorn Invests in Green Infrastructure

The Transport and Environment Committee decided in February 2026 on a range of measures for climate adaptation. In particular, the unsealing of 15,000 m² of road surface and the creation of tree beds and planting areas in several streets (e.g. Kolberger Straße, Denekamper Straße) are far-reaching. These measures aim to increase heat relief in the city and reduce runoff from rainfall.

In addition, permeable paving will be used on 14,200 m². Other projects include the greening of bus stops and school roofs as well as the greening of public spaces. The city plans to create an annual report on the implementation of these measures and publish it on the City Election Website – a transparent approach appreciated by citizens.

In the field of public relations, a feature article on climate adaptation measures for 2025 will be published, and the city will participate in the 2026 "Lebensträume" fair with a booth on climate protection topics. This shows that the city understands climate protection not only as a technical project, but also as a community task.

Social Affairs and Integration: Security and Education in Focus

The Committee for Social Affairs, Youth, Integration, Safety and Order decided on a participatory process for the implementation of the right to full-day childcare for primary school children starting in the 2026/2027 school year. The costs for process facilitation with external moderation are estimated at 20,000 euros and will be covered from the school administration's budget. This shows the city's willingness to strengthen participation and co-determination in educational matters.

The refugee situation remained a topic: as of 14.01.2026, 935 Ukrainian seekers of protection are accommodated in Nordhorn. The city is preparing for the transition of social benefits for refugees, which will come into effect on 1 April 2025. The youth work reported on 115 cases under the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act and the planning for the year 2026. The city is relying on digital offers, such as the new holiday pass platform, which replaces printed flyers and ensures greater accessibility and sustainability.

Sports and Leisure: New Rules and Review of Funding

The Sports Committee decided on a new fee schedule for the use of municipal gymnastics and sports halls. The fees vary depending on the size and equipment of the hall and range between 15 and 25 euros per hour. Private use, such as for children's birthday parties, is no longer permitted in the future. In addition, the use is subject to an exercise instructor's license (at least a C-License) – a regulation that aims to strengthen safety and quality in sports use.

A proposal for the establishment of a funding fund "Generations in Motion" in the amount of 10,000 euros was rejected in the Sports Committee. Nevertheless, the city remains active in supporting small sports projects: for example, 21,111.92 euros were distributed to clubs in 2025, supporting projects such as the purchase of an air track or a scoreboard.

Overview: What Was Important This Month

• Nordhorn is planning comprehensive climate adaptation measures, including unsealing road surfaces and permeable paving.
• The city is relying on digital offers for holiday programs and climate protection topics.
• The participatory process for full-day childcare for primary school children is being implemented.
• The refugee situation remains a topic – currently, 935 Ukrainian seekers of protection live in Nordhorn.
• The sports fees for gymnastics halls have been newly regulated – private use and use without a license are no longer permitted.

Final Verdict with Outlook

February 2026 in Nordhorn was characterized by climate-friendly measures, social integration, and sports policy realignment. The city proves that it can act environmentally friendly and citizen-friendly at the same time. In March, the next round of citizen participation is already planned with the Climate Tree Action in November 2026 and the Spring Clean on 14.03.2026 – an opportunity to get actively involved.