Toilet dispute at Hohenzollernplatz: residents defend themselves vehemently!

Toilet dispute at Hohenzollernplatz: residents defend themselves vehemently!

In the heart of Schwabing, specifically in front of Tengstrasse 40, a planned toilet construction is causing restless minds. Residents do not seem to agree on whether the planned project at Hohenzollernplatz is a sensible measure or not. At a citizens' meeting, residents expressed strong concerns, ranging from hygiene problems to worries about odor and noise pollution. According to a report by Mercury Residents fear that the toilet could act as a magnet for problematic groups of people. Despite these concerns, a slim majority voted in favor of a motion to consider alternative locations.

The urgency for the toilet facility is emphasized by Kim Beblo from the building department. Their argument is based on the need to meet demand at the nearby Hohenzollernplatz. The planned location turns out to be the only feasible one, as the space is dominated by trees, which entail possible location restrictions.

Public sanitation facilities and their challenges

A well-planned toilet facility should provide more than just a place to defecate. It must combine functionality, safety, hygiene and a pleasant design. As in the article by SHK professional As explained above, the expectations of users are clear: They want a clean system that is easy to use and maintains their privacy. The use of robust and hygienic materials such as stainless steel is recommended to make cleaning easier and to withstand wear and tear.

Particularly in busy districts like Schwabing, public toilets must be carefully planned so that they meet the high demands of users and the increasing number of visitors. Accessibility is another important point that is required by law. One accessible toilet per facility is required, which brings additional planning challenges.

Concerns and social measures

Hohenzollernplatz has repeatedly had to struggle with noise, garbage and alcohol abuse in recent years. Residents and the Schwabing-West district committee are therefore calling for measures to improve the situation. In the period from January to October 2023, 47 crimes were registered there, and similarly high numbers are expected in the coming years. The police carry out regular checks and have now installed a contact officer who is also seeking talks with residents and marginalized groups in order to defuse the situation, according to a report from TZ.

The BA chairwoman Gesa Tiedemann (Greens) confirms the problem of the increasing number of affected people at Hohenzollernplatz. In this context, her colleague, city councilor Evelyne Menges (CSU), has submitted an application to actively counteract violence and disruption. The application calls for increased social offerings and the consideration of a local alcohol ban.

The planned toilet project could represent a partial measure to improve the situation at Hohenzollernplatz if it succeeds in addressing the concerns of residents and at the same time ensuring the necessary hygiene standards. Construction work is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2025, accompanied by an on-site meeting with local politicians, the building department, the MVG and interested residents to clarify open questions and address concerns.