The Anstadt village, a unique community of around 50 residents living in converted wagons and self-built structures on Bern's Gaswerk-Areal, faces an uncertain future. After seven years of establishing a vibrant, alternative living space, city plans for extensive housing development threaten its continued existence. A public vote on November 30 will decide the zoning plan for the area, a critical step that could pave the way for hundreds of new apartments.
Key Takeaways
- Anstadt village, home to approximately 50 people, is located on Bern's Gaswerk-Areal.
- Residents live in converted wagons and self-built structures, emphasizing communal living.
- The city of Bern plans to develop the Gaswerk-Areal into a new residential area with hundreds of apartments.
- A public vote on November 30 will determine the future zoning plan for the site.
- Anstadt residents are fighting for the preservation of their alternative housing model.
Life in Bern's Unique Anstadt Village
Stepping into Anstadt, one encounters a scene of constant activity. Wood lies stacked, a half-finished boat sits prominently, and residents are always building or modifying their homes. Julia, a medical practice assistant and Anstadt resident, lives in a converted wagon that doubles as her bedroom. Its interior, decorated in white and pink with floral garlands, challenges common misconceptions about the community.
"Sometimes people think we are messy and don't shower," Julia laughs. She shares a kitchen and living room with four other people. Her community is currently busy installing a heater and a shower in their shared space. This work is necessary because they are expecting a baby in the shared living arrangement.
Anstadt at a Glance
- Population: Approximately 50 residents
- Location: Gaswerk-Areal, Bern, next to the Aare river
- Housing: Converted wagons and self-built structures
- Occupancy: Established 7 years ago on previously unused land
- Amenities: Communal showers, toilets, a cinema, a bar, playground, pizza oven
Communal Living and Daily Challenges
Most Anstadt residents walk about 100 meters to reach communal showers and toilets. Julia describes the practicalities of winter nights: "At night, you sometimes pull out a shoe if it's muddy." Despite these challenges, she values the communal spirit.
"It is nice to be with many different people," Julia says. "Not just living behind a closed door in an apartment." She often spends time outdoors, finding it beneficial for her well-being. "If I'm angry, I go chop wood for an hour," the 28-year-old grins, highlighting the therapeutic aspects of their lifestyle.
A Brief History of Anstadt
Anstadt began as a squat on an unused meadow. Tim, a 32-year-old metalworker and student, was among the first occupants. "This was an unused meadow before, so we took this place," Tim explains. Following the initial occupation, negotiations with the city of Bern, which owns the land, led to a usage agreement. Over the years, the collection of wagons evolved into the established village it is today, home to about 50 individuals.
The Looming Threat of Urban Development
The future of Anstadt is now uncertain. The city of Bern plans to redevelop the Gaswerk-Areal, a prime location next to the Aare river. The proposal includes building several hundred new apartments. The next critical step for this plan is a public vote on November 30. Citizens will vote on the zoning plan for the Gaswerk-Areal, which includes a planning obligation.
This situation presents a conflict between two progressive ideals: providing affordable housing for many versus preserving an alternative, communal living space for a few. Tim emphasizes that "Anstadt is more than a place to live." It offers rentable spaces, hosts theater rehearsals in its large hall, and features a cinema and a bar, creating a cultural hub.
"Basically, it is better if someone is there than if a vacant lot stands empty."
City's Stance and Legal Battles
Melanie Mettler, Bern's Finance Director, acknowledges the city's policy of tolerating temporary occupations. "Basically, it is better if someone is there than if a vacant lot stands empty," Mettler states. However, she also expects Anstadt residents to accept democratic decisions. "We decide as a community how we develop and shape the space – these rules then apply to everyone."
The Anstadt association is currently engaged in legal and political battles against the city's construction plans. Mettler confirms this is their right as citizens. However, she expects them to respect the public's decisions.
Bern's Other Wagenplätze
Bern already hosts five other wagon sites or hut villages on city-owned land. Around ten years ago, the city attempted to create a designated zone for residential experiments in Riedbach, west of the city. However, this plan has faced legal obstacles and remains blocked.
Seeking Coexistence and Future Possibilities
The Anstadt community also provides temporary shelter. "A circus troupe comes by with wagons every year. And sometimes someone knocks on the door looking for a place to sleep or a shower," Tim recounts. This open-door policy highlights their role as a social support network.
A proposal within Bern's city parliament explores the idea of coexistence between the hut village and the new development. Tim indicates that Anstadt residents would likely be open to such a solution. "Alternative, solidarity-based, and collective forms of housing should be included in Bern's urban concept," he argues.
Tim expresses concern that unique places like Anstadt are repeatedly erased. "Then it takes an extreme amount of energy to rebuild these structures and infrastructures," he notes. Despite the city's plans to build, the Anstadt community remains resolute. A large banner proudly declares, "Anstadt stays!" While the exact timeline for construction remains unclear, the residents anticipate at least a few more years for their living experiment.
