Fixed outdoor gastro dispute on Aachener Straße?
Over the past two and a half years, many people in Cologne have once again enjoyed outdoor gastronomy – that was possibly one of the few positive aspects of the corona effects. A popular place to go is Aachener Strasse. However, there have recently been some discussions here – even the end of the outdoor catering trade was feared. But now everyone can temporarily breathe a sigh of relief.
“Balthasar”, “Herr Pimock” or “Bar Schmitz” – anyone who likes to be out and about in the west of Cologne is sure to know these locations. They are just a few of the many gastronomic offers on Aachener Strasse, which repeatedly attract tourists because of their outdoor gastronomy.
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However, efforts have recently been made to improve the conditions for pedestrians on the side of the road. Is this at the expense of table and chair space? This was feared, but now seems to be averted. Like the portal “24Rhine” reports that there will even be more space for outdoor catering in the future.
Aachener Straße: More space for pedestrians and for outdoor gastronomy?
There are currently two footpaths, each two meters wide – that drew attention to certain people who are committed to barrier-free paths. Two meters are not enough, it was said. Outdoor gastronomy is currently also entitled to two meters. What is the solution? One suggestion, which at least currently satisfies all parties, is that there should only be one sidewalk in the future, but it WILL be wider.
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It should be arranged on the side of the house and be 3.05 meters wide. That would be an improvement in terms of comfort. There should also be a “gain in width” for the outdoor gastronomy – from two meters to 2.80 meters or even 2.90 meters. There should still be a security area of 50 centimeters from the street.
This compromise was worked out during a site visit on August 27th. However, it is not official yet. It WILL take at least another month until then. A special session was called for this on September 26th. Ultimately, responsibility for the decision rests with the district council.
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