New multi-generation park in Bremen: A place for exercise and encounters!

New multi-generation park in Bremen: A place for exercise and encounters!

On June 18, 2025, the new multi-generation park on the campus meadow of the University of Bremen was inaugurated. This innovative project represents a living space for movement, encounters and experiencing nature and is the result of a participatory process. The park is accessible to members of the university and guests of the technology park and offers numerous opportunities for active leisure activities.

The first elements to be available in the new park include trampolines, fruit trees, Benje hedges, bench-table combinations, a slackline and visual and natural structural elements. The fruit trees were donated by BUND, while two large chalkboards were set up for outdoor meetings or lessons. Particular attention is paid to the orange ZONTA bench, which acts as a symbol against violence against women.

Participatory process and user orientation

The design of the multi-generation park is based on an ideas workshop that took place in February 2023 under the direction of the naturspielraum planning office. This process made it possible to take into account the wishes and needs of different user groups, which is crucial for the quality and attractiveness of the park. The continuous development and maintenance of the facility will take place gradually, supported by civic engagement and funding contributions.

There is a current need for native trees to green the fence on the street. In order to integrate additional movement, play and seating objects, specific funding is currently being sought. In particular, benches, tables, a volleyball court and other play options should come into focus. Interested institutions and sponsors have the opportunity to contact the project coordination. Contact information is available: Inae Kim-Frommherz, Email: inae.kim-frommherz@vw.uni-bremen.de, Tel: +49 (0) 421 – 218-60107.

Social significance of play and exercise spaces

The importance of exercise and play for the development of children and young people cannot be overestimated. Therefore, the inauguration of new or redesigned play spaces is an important task for local politics. Many cities face challenges such as limited budgets and increasing traffic safety requirements. Nevertheless, citizens' initiatives and transparent communication show that it is possible to upgrade playgrounds.

In Reutlingen, for example, the city is faced with the task of improving the quality and equipment of its 123 playgrounds. Requirement guidelines of 2 m² per inhabitant in the core city illustrate the need for a wide range of open spaces. Promoting citizen participation through inspections, questionnaires and workshops is essential.

Projects in other cities

The multi-generation park in Bremen is part of a larger trend to create public recreation and exercise spaces in cities. A good example of this is the exercise course in Braunschweig, which is aimed at a wide range of users and is considered the largest public course of its kind. The planning and implementation took place in close collaboration with citizens, which ensures that the facilities offered meet the real needs of the population.

The comprehensive approach, which focuses on user needs, will also be continued in Bremen. With a focus on exercise and play opportunities as well as the continued involvement of the public, the multi-generation park in Bremen will become a lively place for all generations, encouraging both exercise and social encounters. Further information can be found on the University of Bremen website.