Chaos for refugee accommodation: Lichtenberg's hotel soon closes

Chaos for refugee accommodation: Lichtenberg's hotel soon closes

In Berlin there is a significant change: A large hotel will be closed at the end of September to make room for up to 1200 refugees. Wide triggered discussions and concern among local politicians and residents, while the city is preparing for an increasing reception of refugees.

urgency of the situation for Lichtenberg

Benjamin Hudler, the CDU parliamentary group leader in the Lichtenberg district, commented concerns about the spatial and social challenges that the obligation brings. "By 2027, almost 3,000 refugees are to come to Lichtenberg, which corresponds to a small Brandenburg town!" Emphasized Hudler. "We are at the limit when it comes to our resources!"

criticism of lack of information

The concerns of local politicians are also reinforced by the lack of clear information from the Senate. Hudler explains: "At the same time, we don't get any information on how to deal with integration, school and daycare centers and language courses. I see no concept." This indicates a potential overwhelming overwhelming of the municipal infrastructure.

redesign plans and investments

The "City Hotel East", which will make space for refugees through its closure, is officially rented by the Senate on January 1, 2025. However, extensive conversions must be carried out in order to offer the new residents appropriate accommodation. This includes community kitchens on every floor, with estimated costs of 143 million euros over a period of ten years.

uncertain future for hotel employees

The closure of the hotel raises questions about the future of the 75 hotel employees. According to reports, they were only informed about the closure on June 27, although it remains unclear whether they can be accommodated in other hotels of the same chain. This shows the uncertainty that goes hand in hand with such extensive changes.

expected effects on the neighborhood

residents are concerned about how to explain the increasing flow of refugees and the necessary integration to the existing residents. "We are about to take every fifth refugee in the city, but at the same time we don't hear from the Senate how to deal with the consequences," says Hudler. This illustrates how important it is to include the community in the process and ensure transparency.

The coming months will be crucial to observe how the city of Berlin deals with this challenge. The path to the successful integration and the creation of a common coexistence requires both political and social efforts.