Retail and Town Center Development Concept for Hoyerswerda

Together with BBE Handelsberatung GmbH, Drees & Sommer was commissioned to develop a forward-looking Retail and Town Center Development Concept for the City of Hoyerswerda in response to the rapidly changing retail landscape. Like many medium-sized cities, Hoyerswerda is facing the challenges of a declining population, increasing retail vacancies, and decreasing vitality in its town centers.

Our role in this project was to develop an urban development strategy for Hoyerswerda’s key retail locations. To establish a solid foundation, we carried out a comprehensive site and spatial analysis, complemented by both digital and on-site public participation to capture residents’ perspectives and local needs.

Our spatial strategies focus on activating and enhancing public spaces through climate adaptation measures, such as tree planting and the integration of pocket greenery, revitalizing public squares with outdoor dining opportunities, and creating more flexible and attractive uses for public spaces. A key priority was to strengthen future-ready retail structures that align with the city's long-term urban development objectives, ensuring vibrant, resilient, and sustainable town centers.

Added Value

• The project demonstrates how the careful transformation of underutilized industrial and commercial areas can create lasting value. Existing buildings and open spaces are enhanced, the site's unique identity is preserved, and user-centered functions are introduced to sustainably revitalize the district.

Individual services

• Socio-spatial analysis
• Economic location assessment
• User and program concept development, including persona creation