Future-Proof Inner Cities: What's Next After Funding Ends
Wolfsburg’s three-year 'Future-Proof City Centers and Hubs' (ZIZ) programme has concluded after investing around €1.2 million in the districts of Fallersleben and Vorsfelde. The initiative helped residents turn local ideas into reality, with each area receiving €12,000 annually to fund community-led projects. Now, the city administration has announced plans to build on this progress under a new strategy called 3 Centers, 1 Concept.
The ZIZ programme delivered several key improvements across both districts. In Fallersleben, barrier-free access was introduced at the castle courtyard, while an open-air stage was built in the castle park. Vorsfelde saw the creation of the Summer Lounge in the church square, which will return this year with both temporary and permanent upgrades. Additionally, Fallersleben gained a rental and repair station for e-bikes and bicycles, and both areas will soon receive crow-proof waste bins and public drinking fountains.
Local *ZentrenBüros*—district offices acting as hubs for discussion—played a central role in connecting residents, policymakers and the administration. These spaces helped coordinate projects and foster dialogue, ensuring that community needs shaped the developments. The city also worked with Wolfsburg Wirtschaft und Marketing GmbH (WMG) to produce a *Future Handbook*, offering practical recommendations based on the programme’s findings. Despite the ZIZ funding ending, many initiatives will continue with support from the city, WMG and local activists. The focus now shifts to improving quality of life, boosting local culture and economy, and increasing visibility for both districts. Construction of the *mobiSTATION* in Vorsfelde is set to begin on November 25, marking the next step in the city’s long-term plans.
The ZIZ programme strengthened Fallersleben and Vorsfelde as vibrant, resilient spaces with better infrastructure and community engagement. Moving forward, the city administration will maintain this momentum through targeted investments and ongoing collaboration with residents. Further enhancements, including the new mobiSTATION and expanded amenities, are already in motion.
