Wiking Yard Remediation Completed - Wikingeck's Toxic Legacy Erased as Cleanup Transforms Polluted Site into Green Space

The remediation of the Wikingeck contaminated site in Schleswig has finished on time and under budget. Once one of the largest polluted areas in Schleswig-Holstein, the land now poses no threat to residents or the environmental conservation. The project marks a major step in transforming the former industrial zone into a usable public space.

Work on the site began in October 2023, with a total cost of around €20 million. The area had been polluted for decades by toxic waste from an old gas works and a tar/roofing paper factory. Contaminants had spread through the soil and into the nearby Schlei River.

All polluted earth, both on land and along the waterfront, was dug up and replaced. By the end of last year, the cleanup was complete, removing any risk to people or nature. The city has now shifted focus to redevelopment, guided by urban planning that balances environmental, aesthetic, and practical needs.

The restored area will feature a new green space with seating, 22 free public parking spots, and freshly paved roads. Sidewalks have been completely redone, curbs reset, and street lighting improved. Mayor Jonas Kähler highlighted that the site is now contamination-free and will serve as a high-quality recreational and urban area.

The project eliminates a long-standing environmental hazard while creating a functional public space. Residents will soon have access to a cleaner, safer area with better infrastructure. The city plans to maintain the site as part of its ongoing urban development efforts.