Following an investigation by NDR magazine Panorama 3, Hamburg’s opposition is demanding clarification from the Senate regarding its Elbtower plans. The research indicates that there might have been more cost-effective alternatives for the planned natural history museum than the Elbtower.
Senate’s Initial Vision: Museum and Elbtower Completion
The initial idea, presented by Mayor Peter Tschentscher (SPD) in October, was to achieve two goals simultaneously: securing a location for the long-promised natural history museum and enabling the continuation of the Elbtower construction. This plan involved the city purchasing the lower twelve floors of the Elbtower for 595 million Euros. At the time, it was stated that a cost-benefit analysis had shown that a complete new build or other locations would be more expensive or less suitable.
Opposition Raises Concerns Over Alternatives and Costs
However, Panorama 3’s investigation now suggests that potentially more affordable alternatives might have existed. CDU parliamentary group leader Dennis Thering has requested access to relevant documents before the Bürgerschaft session in mid-January. Thering also recalled the Mayor’s promise that no taxpayer money would be invested in the Elbtower. He highlighted that the space requirements and the per-square-meter price in the Elbtower are exceptionally high, demanding an explanation for these figures. Heike Sudmann of the Left Party has even suggested initiating a parliamentary committee of inquiry to address the matter. Sudmann stated that the Senate appears willing to do anything to eliminate the “disgraceful” Elbtower.
Suppressed Alternatives?
According to NDR’s findings, there are indications that suitable and significantly cheaper alternatives within Hamburg were disregarded.
Reduced Height and City Investment
The Senate intends to pay nearly 600 million Euros, thereby facilitating the continuation of the Elbtower’s construction. The tower’s planned height will be reduced from 245 meters to 199 meters.
This topic was broadcast on NDR 90,3 | NDR 90,3 Aktuell | 10.12.2025 | 12:00 Uhr.
