CDU Secures Long-Term Cultural Use for Alte Münze in Berlin

The Alte Münze, a historical site in the heart of Berlin, will continue to serve as a cultural venue for the long term. The state has reached an agreement to lease significant portions of the former mint located at Molkenmarkt for a minimum of 20 years to Spreewerkstätten, a prominent event organizer and club operator. This arrangement includes an option to extend the lease for an additional 10 years.

Spreewerkstätten has been utilizing the space for various events and projects, including club activities, while also providing opportunities for independent artists. According to the CDU's spokesperson for budget, media, and club culture, this agreement fulfills a commitment made by the CDU and SPD over a decade ago. The spokesperson emphasized the importance of retaining this key cultural location for the benefit of the broader artistic community, assuring that the current blend of theater, jazz, and club operations will be maintained.

Under the terms of the lease, Spreewerkstätten will pay an annual rent of EUR613,560, which covers utilities and maintenance costs. Over the 20-year period, this amounts to a total of approximately EUR12.27 million. Furthermore, the operators have committed to investing at least EUR18 million into the property during the duration of the lease. The state government is expected to allocate around EUR33 million for essential renovations, which will include work on the roof and other areas not utilized by Spreewerkstätten.

Initially, about EUR49 million had been earmarked for the renovation from a special fund. However, due to the significant financial input from the tenant for maintaining the building, the state will save approximately EUR15 million, which can now be redirected towards investments in other cultural sites. A unique clause in the contract ensures that the operator will share a portion of profits with the state once a specific profit threshold is reached. This arrangement aims to balance the economic and cultural responsibilities while addressing the state's tight budget.

Discussions regarding sustainable usage of the Alte Münze have been ongoing for over a decade. Previous proposals included plans that would have allowed the independent cultural scene, particularly in music, to take full control of the venue. Other ideas included the establishment of a dedicated 'House of Jazz,' advocated by musician Till Brönner. However, these concepts failed to materialize into actionable plans or secure financing.

Not everyone is pleased with the current leasing strategy. A coalition representing the independent cultural sector recently criticized the arrangement as detrimental to Berlin's cultural landscape. They argue that instead of securing a community-focused space for artistic initiatives, the property is being handed over to a private commercial entity. Concerns have been raised about the lack of clear guidelines on how the operator will allocate space for cultural activities to the independent scene.