Local Government Financial Equalisation Scheme – the town of Bad Arolsen is refurbishing the Mengeringhausen Town Hall
A grant award of €453,000 from the village development scheme will enable the Mengeringhausen Town Hall to be refurbished to accommodate a wider range of cultural and leisure activities. Karl-Friedrich Frese, First Deputy District Administrator and Head of the Rural Affairs Department, made a point of visiting the site in person to find out more about the project. After all, the refurbishment represents a forward-looking approach to event facilities that will boost the area’s appeal beyond the boundaries of the district. The town of Bad Arolsen is investing over €675,000 in the refurbishment of the community hall in order to offer residents an even more attractive range of cultural and leisure activities.
Mayor Lambion explains the aim of the measures: “The project does more than just improve the functionality and flexibility of the town hall.” It will also promote local culture and strengthen the community. Having more space for various events and activities represents a significant enhancement of the venue, broadens the range of what it has to offer and thus appeals to a wider audience.
The potential of the Mengeringhausen Town Hall, by far the largest event venue in Nordwaldeck, is undeniable. At present, events for up to 500 people are held in the Main Hall, whilst the smaller hall is used solely as a meeting and storage room. The outdoor areas are also largely unused. The following measures are planned to improve the venue’s potential uses:
- Redesign of the entrance area, including a vestibule and outdoor area,
- accessibility for people with disabilities and an induction loop,
- a new cloakroom arrangement in the foyer to allow for the simultaneous use of both auditoriums,
- Construction of a cabaret stage in the small hall,
- Outdoor terrace and children’s play area.
As the measures are to be implemented gradually whilst the venue remains in operation, completion is unlikely to be possible before the end of 2027. However, the Stadthalle will definitely be available again for the 2028 Freischießen festival – six days of intensive celebrations – freshly refurbished and equipped to the highest standard.
Caption: Delighted with the funding to enhance cultural and leisure facilities at Mengeringhausen Town Hall – First Deputy District Administrator Karl-Friedrich Frese, Mayor Marko Lambion, officials from the district (Rural Affairs Department) and the town of Bad Arolsen (Department V: Building), members of the Mengeringhausen Local Advisory Council and representatives of the architectural firm Müntinga and Puy. Photo: Waldeck-Frankenberg District