New Asklepios Clinic in Altona, Hamburg: Construction Start Remains Uncertain
Introduction
Over five years after an architectural competition for the new Asklepios Clinic in Altona, Hamburg, the start of construction remains uncertain. The Senate of Hamburg stated in response to a parliamentary inquiry by CDU representative Anke Frieling that "planning is ongoing." Hamburg’s Mayor, Peter Tschentscher (SPD), had announced the construction of the new hospital in his first government declaration in 2018, shortly after taking office. The new building is planned to be erected directly adjacent to the existing hospital high-rise at the Othmarschen motorway junction. Construction was originally scheduled to begin in 2023.
Reasons for Delays
The Senate explained that the construction of a hospital is a complex undertaking that depends on numerous decisions and changing framework conditions. The ongoing planning was also attributed to the ongoing discussion about hospital reform.
In recent months, the relevant authorities and Asklepios Kliniken Hamburg GmbH have examined the structure of the new hospital and held discussions to optimize processes. According to the Senate’s response, decisions have yet to be made regarding a new road layout and the relocation of a daycare center at the hospital.
Criticism and Revised Timeline
CDU representative Anke Frieling criticized the delays, stating that "the planned completion in 2028 will remain a dream; there is no new schedule." She emphasized that the originally budgeted 425 million euros for the construction will not be sufficient due to the significant increase in construction costs.
An Asklepios spokesperson stated that a start of construction in 2027 currently appears realistic, with a construction period of up to five years.
Need for New Building
According to Asklepios, the new building is necessary because the old building, designed by architect Werner Kallmorgen, would require extensive and monument-compliant renovations for further use after more than 50 years. The vertical structure of the high-rise is no longer appropriate for modern treatment processes and ecological aspects.
Architectural Design
The winning design from the 2019 architectural competition, submitted by a Berlin planning firm, envisions three six-story buildings on an elongated base.
Conclusion
The construction of the new Asklepios Clinic in Altona, Hamburg, has been delayed due to complex planning processes and ongoing discussions about hospital reform. The exact start of construction and timeline remain uncertain, and the original budget is likely to be insufficient due to increased construction costs.
