Investigative Body Distinctively Known As The Commission

The city of Peine, located in Lower Saxony, is buzzing with activity as it embarks on a series of transformative projects. Funded by various programmes, these initiatives aim to enhance accessibility, promote sustainability, and foster a vibrant city centre.

One of the most significant developments is the renovation of the Dorfgemeinschaftshaus and Spielkreis, which will create barrier-free access for all. This project is funded by the Programme for the Promotion of Development in Rural Areas of Lower Saxony and Bremen 2014 to 2020 (PFEIL) and co-financed by the European Union (EU) with funds from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (ELER).

Infrastructure improvements are also on the horizon with the construction of the new Hertha-Peters Bridge. Approximately 165 meters long and 3 meters wide, this steel bridge will span across the city, featuring a ramp south of the bridge due to increased clearance height over the Mittelland Canal.

Sustainable transportation options are being considered as well. Secure parking facilities for E-bikes, consisting of two BikePorts, are planned for the city.

The youth of Peine are also being included in the city's development through the Youth Project Forge. This participation process encourages young people to develop concrete ideas and projects for an attractive city centre.

The city centre's market square will see improvements too, with new furniture replacing the existing seating options. The Urban Oasis with Open Stage project includes a multifunctional stage for cultural activities, mobile seating elements, and greened elements on the historic market square.

Looking ahead, Peine has submitted a funding application for creating a climate protection concept, but a decision is not expected before August/September 2025. Further funding of 1.2 million euros has been announced for Peine from the "Social City" program, but the exact allocation across fiscal years is yet to be determined.

The city is also making strides in sustainability with the renovation of street lighting. Around 240 street lights in the city centre and villages are being replaced with LED lights. The Federal Ministry for the Environment has granted a 25% subsidy for this project within the framework of the National Climate Protection Initiative, with the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) providing a 40% subsidy.

Other projects include the construction of the new Hertha-Peters Bridge, funded in part by the state of Lower Saxony, the renovation of the outdated children's playground in Berkum, funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), and the Ambosteler Weg project in Rohrse, which aims to upgrade the parking lot and create a green common in the village centre, also funded by the EAFRD.

In celebration of Peine's 800th anniversary, a video mapping of the city's history is planned, and an event with light sculptures and light shows in the Burgpark and on the historic market square is scheduled for autumn 2022.

Lastly, Peine city has received a grant of 108,932 Euros for the procurement of mobile end devices for teachers. The city manager, employed since January 1, 2022, through the "Perspective Urban Center" program, will oversee many of these planned measures.

These initiatives demonstrate Peine's commitment to creating a more accessible, sustainable, and vibrant city for all its residents.