The city of Wurzen has won this year’s Saxon downtown competition, “Ab in die Mitte!” The city will receive prize money of 60,000 euros for its concept to redesign the Badergraben, according to an announcement by the Ministry of Economic Affairs. A total of 77 projects were submitted by 63 municipalities. According to the announcement, this represents a “record turnout.” The winning concept from Wurzen aims to make the Badergraben visible and accessible once again. Plans also include establishing a connection to the poet Joachim Ringelnatz, who was born in Wurzen, officials said. “Wurzen is putting our annual motto into concrete practice through more greenery, water, shade, and a pleasant environment,” said Saxony’s Minister of Economic Affairs, Dirk Panter (SPD). The planned measures combine climate adaptation, urban history, culture, commerce, and community interaction in an “outstanding way.” Second place in the competition—each prize worth 40,000 euros—went to Chemnitz and Mittweida (Mittelsachsen district). Third place—each awarded 20,000 euros—went to Frohburg (Leipzig district), Sebnitz (Saxon Switzerland-Eastern Ore Mountains district), and Werdau (Zwickau district). The “Ab in die Mitte! Die City-Offensive Sachsen” award has been presented since 2004 by the State of Saxony and private-sector stakeholders, including chambers of industry and commerce. Copyright 2026, dpa (www.dpa.de). All rights reserved
