Mr Wolfrat, in 2021 the Senate launched the "Frei_Fläche: Raum für kreative Zwischennutzung" funding programme worth around nine million euros to counteract the decline in retail shops with creative projects. Do we need a state-subsidised programme to stimulate change in the city centre?
Yes, it was precisely during the pandemic that this engine was needed. Of course, we had already recognised and focused on the topic of pop-up stores in the real estate industry beforehand. As Art-Invest, we have already realised various concepts on Alter Wall, for example. Not always with creative people, but above all with new and fresh ideas that are fundamentally needed in the city centre. If only to incentivise people to go there again.
What made you decide to use the Frei_Fläche programme?
What we liked was the flexibility in terms of time. Contracts are concluded at short notice and can be extended just as quickly as required - or not. This means that no long-term project development is blocked. And the coordination process at the beginning was also very straightforward. That's why I was so enthusiastic and we immediately rolled out the programme at other locations and properties here in Hamburg. But what I particularly appreciate about the Frei_Fläche programme is the extensive and valuable portfolio of creative projects that Kreativ Gesellschaft makes available. It enables a very fine curation. You can see exactly which concept suits the neighbourhood or the property, just as you can see whether the creative person feels comfortable there. This was very helpful and decisive for the occupancy of the spaces.