Hamburg, February 17 – A copper ornament, described as a rose, fell from the roof of Hamburg City Hall last week, landing on the pedestrian walkway below. The incident, which occurred from a height of approximately 20 meters, resulted in no injuries. The Hamburg Fire Department responded to the scene to assess the situation and secure the area.
Fire Department Secures Area, Removes Loose Parts
Upon receiving reports of the fallen copper piece, the fire department dispatched a specialized vehicle to inspect the roof. A stonemason was also brought in to examine the affected section for any additional risks. During the initial assessment, two smaller roof components were identified as loose and were subsequently removed to prevent further incidents. The immediate danger was deemed to have been averted following these actions.
Area Cordoned Off for Safety
As a precautionary measure, an area in front of the City Hall and along its sides has been cordoned off to ensure public safety. This measure will remain in place until a thorough inspection of the roof’s decorative elements can be completed.
Specialized Inspection Scheduled for Wednesday
A specialized company has been contracted to conduct a comprehensive safety inspection of the ornaments on the City Hall roof. This examination is scheduled to commence on Wednesday, February 19. The start of these works was originally planned for Monday morning, but adverse weather conditions, including snowfall, necessitated a postponement.
The current weather situation has made it unsafe to begin the inspection earlier. Officials are prioritizing the safety of the workers who will be carrying out the assessment of the roof’s structural integrity and the security of its decorative features.
Background on Hamburg City Hall
Hamburg City Hall, or Hamburger Rathaus, is a significant landmark in the city, serving as the seat of the Hamburg Parliament and the city’s government. The building, constructed between 1886 and 1897, is renowned for its intricate architecture and numerous decorative elements, including copper ornaments that adorn its roof.
No Injuries Reported, Public Safety Paramount
The fact that no one was injured despite the significant fall of the copper piece has been a source of relief for authorities. The incident underscores the importance of regular maintenance and safety checks for historic buildings, especially those with elaborate architectural features exposed to the elements.
The upcoming inspection will aim to identify any other potential hazards and ensure that all decorative elements on the City Hall roof are securely fastened, thereby preventing similar occurrences in the future. The City Hall remains a focal point for both residents and tourists, and ensuring its safety is a top priority for the city administration.
Further updates on the inspection findings and any necessary repair work will be provided as they become available.
Source: https://www.ndr.de/nachrichten/hamburg/kupferteil-faellt-vom-rathaus-auf-fussweg-dach-wird-mittwoch-untersucht,kurzehh-2414.html
