Erfurt in Focus: Monthly Review February 2026

Redesigned Education – School Type Changes Approved

In February 2026, Erfurt made key decisions regarding school development. The Primary and Regular School "Thomas Mann" and the School at Geraaue will be converted into comprehensive schools starting with the academic year 2026/27. Both schools will then offer grades 1–10 with an introductory phase, while the academic upper secondary level will continue at existing schools, such as the comprehensive school 8 "Otto-Lilienthal".

The decision was made after extensive prior discussions in the Committee for Education and School Sports and the Municipal Council. The goal is to provide students with a differentiated and inclusive education. Pedagogical concepts such as differentiation, language support (DaZ), structured school days, and foreign language instruction are key elements of the transition.

Urban Development and Construction Planning: Retail to be Regulated

Another focus of the February discussions was urban development. The Building Plan GIK773 was approved to prevent the new establishment or expansion of retail businesses with central product ranges north of Straße der Nationen. The aim is to protect the city's structure in the long term and to avoid excessive competition among retail businesses.

In addition, it was decided to renovate the Community Center in Gispersleben, with the use by clubs and the fire brigade no longer planned. The building plan was carried out in a simplified procedure without an environmental assessment under § 13 Abs. 3 BauGB.

Childcare: Long-Term Planning for 2026–2030

The city has approved a medium-term demand plan for childcare facilities and care from 2026 to 2030. The goal is to secure early childhood education in the long term in all city districts. A total of 10,119 childcare spots are planned for this period, with new constructions and general renovations at several daycare centers starting from 2027.

The Youth Welfare Committee is tasked with developing a measures concept based on this plan, which is to be submitted to the municipal council by the end of 2026. In addition, the Mayor is instructed to work towards a statewide financial guarantee for childcare, particularly during periods with declining birth rates.

Finance and Budget: Large Amounts for Childcare and Social Services

The financial orientation for the coming years is also in the spotlight. A total volume of 8.451 billion euros is planned for the financing of childcare until 2030. In addition, the Living in the Social Center (LSZ) is supported with 176.5 million euros, including projects such as "ILVERS-HILFEN" and "Spirit of Generations".

Another project is the introduction of a quality management system in Erfurt's shared housing facilities. A budget of 10,000 euros per year will be provided for leisure activities, as well as micro-funding up to 5,000 euros for activities.

Culture and Politics: From the Natural History Museum to Citizen Participation

In the cultural area, a master plan for the New Erfurt Natural History Museum is being developed, which should be completed by the end of 2025. In addition, the street "Stadionallee" has been named, and the "Ernst-Lamm-Platz" has been abolished. Historical backgrounds are documented.

In politics, the Municipal Council has decided to negotiate with KoWo on the acquisition of the project "DasJOHANN II". A minimum equity contribution of at least 10 million euros is planned, as well as 5 million euros per year from 2027 for the construction of at least 80 new residential units.

Overall Trends: Securing Future Investments

A clear trend in February 2026 is the long-term planning in areas such as education, childcare, and urban development. The city is relying on structural security and investments in the future to ensure long-term stability and growth.

At the same time, there is increasing emphasis on citizen participation and participation. The "Erfurt Crowd" funding model is being expanded, and the provision of free menstrual products in public institutions also shows how the city is responding to social and health needs.

Conclusion and Outlook

February 2026 was marked in Erfurt by clear decisions in education, urban development, and social policies. The city is focusing on long-term planning, investments in infrastructure and education, and social security. The coming months will show how these measures are implemented in practice and what impact they have on city life.