Aalen raises the alarm: heavy goals against nightly vandalism!

Aalen raises the alarm: heavy goals against nightly vandalism!

In the heart of Aalen, a preventive security concept is currently being worked on that aims to reduce the nightly vandalism acts and the feeling of uncertainty, especially at the central bus station (ZOB) and in the Mercatura shopping center. As the Schwäbische Post are reported at the Mercatura. These should close the passage in the night hours and keep uninvited guests away. Center manager Arne Schiek states that the installation of the gates should be completed in the next four to six weeks.

The decision to take this security measure was significantly influenced by the unnecessary incidents in the past, which include graffiti and property damage. Above all, the city has moved the proximity of the Mercatura to the ZOB and the station forecourt, which are considered hotspots for criminal offenses and drinking. A security survey showed that many citizens feel unsafe in this area. It is particularly striking that a total of 111 crimes were documented at the ZOB and train station in 2024, including numerous crimes. The estimated 25 to 30 percent of all crimes in the city center.

security measures in the discussion

The security situation around the ZOB is also taken seriously by the municipal council Aalen. In the course of budget consultations, a decision-making package of the CDU parliamentary group was discussed, which aims to improve security and well-being in the city. It is encouraging that broad approval was given to the application in the last session. The area around the main train station, ZOB, Mercatura and Schubartstraße is according to Schwäbischer Zeitung responsible for 47 percent of the inner city crimes.

The residents and business people around the ZOB report a high degree of vandalism and assault. A new bridge, which was recently opened, was damaged within 24 hours - a sign of the increasing problems that need to be solved in this area. Young people also mentioned the station forecourt, the bicycle parking house and the ZOB as negative in surveys, especially because of alcohol consumption and noise.

common procedure for a safe eel

Mayor Frederick Brütting stated that the police authority was understaffed, which also made the security situation more difficult. He confirmed that the administration has already approached the Interior Ministry in order to request better staffing. An important step to improve the security situation could also be a municipal order service that is on the road uniformed in the city and conveys a greater sense of security.

The topic of video surveillance is controversial in the city. Critics of the measure speak of possible interventions in personal rights. Nevertheless, there will continue to be discussions between the regulatory office and the police to find out where video surveillance could make sense.

Until the creation of a comprehensive security concept, the installation of the folding gates at the Mercatura can be seen as the first measure, which will hopefully bring more security and a better attitude to life in this part of the city. The challenges are great, but with a coordinated procedure, Aalen could be on the way to a safe and inviting cityscape.