Berlin’s RAW-Gelände secures interim deal to remain open · News ⟋ RAA new agreement will protect the cultural site for at least two years, while plans progress for housing, commercial space and a permanent cultural provision.
Berlin’s Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg district and property owner Kurth-Gruppe have agreed on an interim lease for RAW-Gelände, alongside a framework for the future development of the cultural site.
Under the proposed deal, the district will take over the lease and subletting arrangements for two years from next month, with an option to extend for a further year. The district said it aims to complete the site’s ongoing development plan by March 2029.
The interim lease still requires approval from Berlin’s House of Representatives’ main committee, which is due to meet on September 2nd, and Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg’s district assembly, expected to vote on September 9th. Its signing is also conditional on establishing that the proposed housing can meet relevant emissions requirements.
Made up of everything from artist studios and circus programmes to skate halls, climbing facilities and clubs like Cassiopeia and Lokschuppen Berlin, RAW-Gelände is a former industrial complex that draws over a million visitors each year. A campaign aimed at underlining the site’s cultural diversity and social importance was launched in April.