Economic Development in Velbert: Location Factors, Investments, and Future Opportunities

Economic Development in Velbert: Between Land Requirements, Digitalization, and Labor Market Opportunities

Velbert's economic development emerged as a central topic in urban development in February 2026. With an unemployment rate of 8.2 percent, scarce land resources, and investments in broadband and city marketing, Velbert is navigating an exciting tension between growth opportunities and structural challenges.

Below, we analyze the most important developments in economic policy, with a focus on the labor market, land development, digitalization, and tourism initiatives.

Labor Market: Rising Numbers, but Also Areas for Action

Velbert's labor market remains a challenge. With 3,723 unemployed individuals in January 2026, the rate of 8.2 percent exceeds the district average of Mettmann (7.3 percent). Youth unemployment – with 317 affected individuals aged 15 to 25 – is a particularly sensitive issue. Although there was a slight decrease compared to the previous year, the development remains critical.

The share of foreign unemployed individuals (1,580) is also not negligible. This shows that Velbert's integration policy in the labor market still has potential. The city could more actively collaborate with local companies to offer targeted qualification programs.

Land Development: Priorities and Costs

The search for new industrial land is a central aspect of the city's economic policy. With a total land requirement of 62 hectares and 18 hectares of land still unresolved, the situation is tense. The "Große Feld" area on the Langeberger Straße has been identified as the most important option. Here, the change in the land use plan is decisive.

Other areas, such as the one between Rottberger Straße and Eintrachtstraße, fall far behind expectations due to high costs and landscape constraints. A feasibility study is urgently needed to clarify the cost-benefit balance for the various plots. Here, a classic problem of many cities becomes evident: the balance between urban development, ecological requirements, and economic attractiveness is difficult to maintain.

Digitalization and Broadband Expansion: Successes and Challenges

Velbert has clearly positioned itself in the field of digitalization. The application for funding for broadband expansion has been approved, and now the city must cover its local share. The financing model is clear: 50 percent from federal funds, 30 percent from state funds, and 20 percent from local funds. The city is now preparing the corresponding resolutions to initiate the project implementation.

A comprehensive broadband expansion is not only a growth factor for businesses but also a decisive location factor. Velbert can remain competitive with this step – provided that the financing proceeds quickly.

Tourism and International Contacts: A New Perspective

Velbert has increasingly focused on tourism in recent months. The presentation of the city to travel agencies from the Philippines shows that Velbert wants to position itself internationally. The goal is to attract future tour groups (10–40 people), which could be particularly interesting for local restaurants.

The vacancy rate of 7 percent is another issue that arises in this context. The city has concrete marketing perspectives for former fashion stores such as B7 and Schäffkes. It is important here that the city not only acts passively but actively collaborates with investors to address vacancies.

Economic Promotion and City Marketing: Budget, Criticism, and Perspectives

The Economic Promotion Committee approved a budget of 44,000 euros for events within the framework of city marketing in February 2026. However, there was also criticism: A motion was submitted to remove funds for the "Bücherstadt Langenberg" association and to reduce the grant for the Velbert Carnival Committee. The decision passed with 9:3 votes, with the SPD and FDP voting against.

Funding for city marketing is always also a political issue. The city must develop transparent criteria to ensure that funds are used effectively – and not flow into projects that do not show long-term effects.

Outlook: Velbert as an Economic Location in Transition

Velbert is facing major challenges, but also opportunities. The land development, broadband expansion, and tourism initiatives show that the city is consciously pursuing growth. At the same time, labor market policy and the financing of economic promotion measures must be more focused on sustainability and participation.

In 2026, it will be crucial whether Velbert clearly defines its priorities, quickly conducts feasibility studies for land and projects, and designs financing models transparently. Only in this way can Velbert act as an attractive economic location in the long term.

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