Forward-looking settlement development strategy for Hofen
The settlement development strategy for Hofen marks the beginning of a comprehensive local planning revision in the municipality of Thayngen. As a pilot project, it serves the future-oriented utilisation and further development of existing structures. Through in-depth analysis and innovative planning, SES is setting new standards for the entire region.
The settlement development strategy for the Hofen district of the municipality of Thayngen is a milestone in spatial planning in the canton of Schaffhausen. It forms the first building block of a large-scale local planning revision that serves as a pilot project for the development of the entire municipality of Thayngen and its neighbourhoods. The focus is not only on local structures, but also on the integration of regional requirements and cantonal guidelines.
The SES was developed in close collaboration with Dost Architektur GmbH, representatives of the municipality of Thayngen, the canton of Schaffhausen and local associations. With an interdisciplinary approach and the involvement of the public, the settlement development of Hofen is to be future-proofed in order to meet the requirements of the predicted growth. Particular attention is being paid to “inward settlement development”, which optimises the use of existing resources and at the same time improves the local quality of life.
A roadmap for Hof’s future
The SES is based on four central strategic paths that should characterise the spatial and structural future of Hof.
- Preserve historic substance, create new living spaces
The preservation of the historic building structure is a central element of the SES. Particular emphasis is placed on the spatial and design integration of new construction projects. New living space is to be created, particularly in the areas of the former market garden, in order to meet the growing demand for housing. - Improving the design of the town centre
The quality of life in Hofen is to be enhanced by upgrading the design of central meeting spaces. The village square will be redefined as a meeting place for the village community, with seating and playground facilities created and traffic-calming measures implemented. - Safety and traffic calming
One focus of the SES is on improving road safety. Pedestrians and cyclists should benefit from traffic-calming measures and the route to school in particular should be decoupled from the main road to ensure the safety of schoolchildren. - Strengthening Hofen’s identity
Hofen wants to present itself confidently and emphasise its unique qualities. The SES envisages an increased digital presence and the staging of key historical buildings to make the town more attractive for both residents and visitors.
These overarching strategy paths include eight specific indicative projects that are to be implemented in the short, medium and long term. These projects range from the creation of new residential areas and the upgrading of the village square to the renaturalisation of the Beaver, which will make a significant contribution to the ecological balance of the region.
Landscape and nature as a central component
The Lower Reiat region is characterised by a diverse landscape of hills and agricultural land. This landscape is not only ecologically valuable, but is also listed in the cantonal structure plan as a “landscape worthy of protection”. The dry meadows, pastures and orchards that surround Hofen are striking landscape elements that characterise the townscape and should be preserved.
The beaver, which flows through Hofen and is used for agricultural purposes in parts, is of particular importance. The planned renaturalisation of the canalised sections is intended to increase ecological diversity and further enhance the attractiveness of the natural environment for residents.
Buildings worthy of protection and building land reserves
Hofen has a historic building stock that should not only be protected as part of the SES, but also integrated into the future development of the settlement. In particular, the baroque “Holländer district” with the residence of Tobias Holländer and the striking Schweizerbund inn contribute to the unique identity of the village.
The SES also envisages strategic utilisation of the existing building land reserves. There is long-term upzoning potential, particularly in the area of the former market garden and on the outskirts of the village, to meet future demand for residential and work space.
Communication and public involvement
Transparent communication with the residents of Hofen is a central component of the SES. The planning steps were accompanied by a working group of community representatives, local associations and planners and presented at public events. In particular, the development of the former market garden as a new residential area met with great interest from the population.
The settlement development strategy drawn up for Hofen not only sets new standards for local planning, but also for cooperation between the administration and local residents. The participatory approach ensures that the future development of the municipality meets the needs of the residents.
A model for the entire region
The Hofen SES not only serves the further development of the district itself, but also as a model for the other districts in the municipality of Thayngen. The findings and guidelines developed in Hofen are to be transferred to Altdorf, Bibern, Barzheim, Opfertshofen and Thayngen. In this way, SES is making a significant contribution to safeguarding the quality of life and economic potential of the entire region in the long term.