New Generation Vying for Complimentary Apartment Living, Social Gatherings at Local Pubs, and Exciting Hiking Adventures in German City

In the heart of Brandenburg, Germany, the city of Eisenhüttenstadt is celebrating its 75th anniversary. Established around a steel plant after World War 2, the city is now grappling with a dwindling population of around 25,000. To combat this, city officials have launched an innovative programme aimed at attracting young people to the area.

The 'Try Out Living' programme offers free flats to two lucky individuals as a chance to experience life in Eisenhüttenstadt. The programme, inspired by similar schemes in other east German regions, has received a surprising number of applications from around the world. The motivations of the applicants are wide-ranging, from the allure of the city's history to the promise of a fresh start.

City officials are offering more than just a place to live. Potential employers are available for meetings, and free pub socials are organised to help newcomers settle in. Hiking excursions in the surrounding forest are also being offered to attract those drawn to the city's natural beauty.

Eisenhüttenstadt's unique architectural charm has not gone unnoticed. Tom Hanks, the renowned actor, has described the city as an "amazing architectural place". City officials are hopeful that this recognition will help to boost the city's appeal.

In an effort to encourage regeneration projects, towns in some regions are offering houses for as little as £1. Similar schemes have been attempted in depleted towns in Italy, like Tuscany, where regional authorities offered up to £25,000 to relocate to mountain towns.

In Mussomeli, Sicily, Rubia Daniels bought six houses for €1 (£0.85) each as part of a council scheme. After admin costs, agency fees, and deeds, the cost of each property was around €4,000 (£3,400). This approach, while not quite as drastic as offering free flats, is another strategy used to revitalise struggling towns.

City officials in Eisenhüttenstadt have offered financial incentives in the past to attract newcomers. The success of these initiatives, coupled with the innovative 'Try Out Living' programme, suggests a renewed commitment to reversing the city's depopulation trend. If successful, Eisenhüttenstadt could avoid turning into a "ghost town" and instead thrive as a vibrant, modern city.