Hernals District Council Meeting: Postsportplatz Resolution and Urban Updates
The Hernals district administration recently convened on June 3 to address a diverse agenda ranging from fiscal stability and educational infrastructure to urban mobility and the preservation of local landmarks.
Fiscal Management and Debt Recovery
A primary point of contention during the session was the district’s financial health. In response to inquiries from the ÖVP regarding the management of approximately 7.6 million euros in debt—and the apparent lack of reserves—District Chief Peter Jagsch (SPÖ) clarified the administration’s strategy.
Jagsch stated that a detailed repayment plan has been established, which is intended to resolve the district’s liabilities over the next nine years.
Infrastructure and Urban Development
The administration announced a significant relocation for the “Lernwerkstatt,” an inclusive primary school. Currently located at Hernalser Hauptstraße 200–222, the institution is scheduled to move to Panikengasse 31 starting in September.
Several urban enhancement projects also received attention. A proposal by Elisabeth Mössmer-Cattalini (SPÖ) to create a “Wiener Straucherl”—a small green space and stepping-stone biotope for butterflies and wild bees—was approved by a majority including the SPÖ, Neos, ÖVP, Greens, and KPÖ.
Mobility and Public Space
The session saw various proposals aimed at improving district transit and accessibility. The FPÖ requested a new traffic light at the intersection of Vollbadgasse and Dornbachergasse, a motion that was unanimously referred to the mobility commission.
the Greens proposed installing benches every 300 metres from the Hernals S-Bahn to Neuwaldegg, which was referred to the district development commission. A request by the Neos for a new bike rack in Promenadegasse was formally accepted.
The Battle for Postsportplatz
The meeting culminated in a joint resolution supported by all parties to preserve the Postsportplatz. The future of the site now depends on decisions from the City Hall regarding zoning changes and the Ministry of Economic Affairs, acting as the owner representative for ÖBAG, which holds a majority stake in the Post.
Supporters of the site may continue to sign an online petition until September to voice their commitment to saving the Post-SV Wien and the Postsportplatz. More information is available here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much debt does the Hernals district currently hold?
The district has debts of approximately 7.6 million euros, which are being managed via a nine-year repayment plan.
When and where is the Lernwerkstatt school moving?
The inclusive primary school is moving from Hernalser Hauptstraße 200–222 to Panikengasse 31 in September.
Who has the final say over the fate of the Postsportplatz?
The decision rests with the City Hall, which must decide on a zoning change, and the Ministry of Economic Affairs, representing the majority owner ÖBAG.
How should local governments prioritize immediate urban greening projects when facing long-term debt obligations?