Critical Planning

Decades of population loss, intensified after Germany reunification, forced decision-makers in Leipzig to re-examine their planning approach. This resulted in a paradigm shift away from traditional growth-oriented planning and the adoption of a shrinking cities model. The innovative and participatory approach taken by the local government was recognized and heralded by many as musicians, artists and students began to migrate to the city. In turn, neighborhoods have begun to gentrify. Leipzig is at once growing, shrinking, developing and declining. An industrial history, a political revolution, population loss, economic decline, and controversial policy have all contributed to Leipzig’s incongruous identity.