CDU and Chamber of Commerce Propose Temporary Köhlbrand Bridge for €850 Million
Hamburg, September 21 – In response to concerns over the deteriorating Köhlbrand Bridge in Hamburg’s port, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Chamber of Commerce are advocating for the construction of a provisional replacement bridge. The proposed solution, estimated to cost around 850 million euros, aims to secure the port’s connectivity until the planned new bridge is completed, which is not expected until the early 2040s.
The CDU parliamentary group has submitted a motion for the upcoming Bürgerschaft (state parliament) session, urging a review of the temporary bridge construction. Antonia Goldner, CDU spokesperson for port policy, emphasized that Hamburg cannot rely on mere hope for its most crucial port connection. She warned that a complete closure of the existing bridge would be catastrophic for the port and the regional economy.
The Need for a ‘Plan B’
The idea of a relief bridge has been under discussion within the Chamber of Commerce since early summer, according to information from NDR 90.3. An engineering firm commissioned by the Chamber has estimated the construction costs at approximately 850 million euros. Such a temporary bridge could be built parallel to the existing structure and at the same height. Experts believe the construction period would be between two and three years.
Goldner is pushing for a swift implementation of a ‘Plan B’ for the Köhlbrand Bridge, stating, “Those who only react when the port comes to a standstill are acting too late.”
Alternatives for Short-Term Closures
The Chamber’s plenum also explored other options in case of a short-term closure of the Köhlbrand Bridge, including ferries across the Köhlbrand that could transport trucks. However, this would require the construction of dedicated jetties and the acquisition of RoRo ferries, and even then, only a fraction of the traffic could be handled.
Uncertainty Surrounds Construction and Funding
Hans Stapelfeldt of the Road Haulage and Logistics Association (VSH) welcomed the basic idea but raised concerns about who could construct such a relief structure in a short timeframe. For Stapelfeldt, the priority remains accelerating the already decided new construction of the Köhlbrand Bridge.
The Senate recently presented the winning design for the new Köhlbrand Bridge, selected by a jury. The new bridge is planned to be higher and longer than the current structure.
Recent Restrictions on the Existing Bridge
Effective immediately, the Köhlbrand Bridge has been closed to heavy transports weighing over 44 tons. This measure aims to reduce wear and tear on the aging structure and extend its operational life.
Broader Context: Infrastructure Challenges in Hamburg
The discussion around the Köhlbrand Bridge comes amidst other infrastructure challenges in Hamburg. Following the CDU’s recent electoral setback, Hamburg’s CDU leader is calling for consequences, urging the federal chancellor to decisively implement planned reforms, even against coalition resistance. Additionally, Federal Drug Commissioner Streeck has announced support for major cities in dealing with crack cocaine users, following a visit to Hamburg. Meanwhile, a provisional wooden staircase at Berliner Tor will remain until 2028 due to repeated delays in the dismantling of the bridge at the railway station, attributed by Deutsche Bahn to adjusted construction schedules.
The debate surrounding the Köhlbrand Bridge highlights the critical importance of robust infrastructure for Hamburg’s economic stability and the ongoing efforts to ensure the city’s future as a major European port.
