Horror conditions in Favoriten: The disaster at Jagdgasse 37!

Horror conditions in Favoriten: The disaster at Jagdgasse 37!

In Favoriten, one of the liveliest districts in Vienna, numerous old buildings are empty or in danger of being demolished. A particularly blatant example can be found at Jagdgasse 37. While the facade was freshly renovated between 2021 and 2022, the inside of the house is in a dilapidated state. Photos and videos not only show a neglected staircase with broken windows, but also dangerous living conditions. Residents report garbage, dead pigeons and a broken power connection. There is even talk of night-time drug consumption by strangers in the stairwell. The attic reveals an even worse sight, with mattresses and blankets belonging to seemingly homeless people.

The situation has also brought the Greens in Favoriten onto the scene. Your club leader, Katrin Fallmann, is calling for stronger protection for old buildings. She suspects that the neglected conditions in the Jagdgasse building are intended to “disgust” the remaining residents. The responsibility lies with the owner, who has been asked to comment and will comment next week. The Greens are also campaigning for a vacancy tax to motivate owners to maintain their buildings.

News from the building regulations

In the context of these grievances, the 2023 amendment to the building regulations that recently came into force is of great importance. This is intended not only to make it more difficult to demolish old buildings, but also to strengthen the protection of the historic buildings in Vienna. According to the OTS Since December 2023, no economic demolition status has been granted and the new regulations bring with them stricter regulations for short-term rentals. The goal: to reduce vacancies and improve the living situation of tenants.

The city of Vienna is investing up to 120 million euros in renovation and decarbonization projects this year. In addition, the “Old Building Protection Offensive” is being expanded to nine districts, an initiative that has already checked around 4,000 houses in 35 days of action. Defects were identified in 740 cases. An important step for a livable living space in our city, like this Dorda emphasized.

The look forward

The problem of empty old buildings in Favoriten is part of a larger issue that affects all of Vienna. While the city is considered one of the most livable metropolises in the world, challenged by rent caps in old buildings and a unique cityscape, it is essential to find the balance between preservation and modernization. The Vienna building regulations amendment is intended to assist in this by promoting sustainable urban development.

Time will tell whether the new regulations and initiatives will bring the desired success. Residents and interested parties are invited to actively participate in the discussion and report problems, for example via the municipal service hotline. Ultimately, Vienna should remain a lively place for everyone.