At the time, concerns about potential disturbances led to a legal dispute initiated by neighbors. The outcome was the construction of a roughly 80-meter-long, four-meter-high wall made of gabions — wirework containers filled with stones — to shield the neighborhood from perceived noise. The structure became a symbol of local resistance and provoked widespread criticism, including a heated comparison by a district committee member to the Berlin Wall.
Despite initial backlash, the shelter has operated without significant incidents since opening. However, a recent announcement by the city’s Department of Housing and Migration has stirred new controversy. In a statement to the Perlach District Committee, officials indicated intentions to both extend the shelter’s use beyond 2026 and potentially expand its capacity — without prior consultation with local residents or detailed disclosure.
Residents learned of the proposed changes through the meeting agenda of a district committee session. Many were quick to cite existing legal agreements that limit the shelter’s operation to a maximum of ten years and a capacity of no more than 160 occupants. Residents have warned that any deviation from these terms could prompt renewed legal action, including another lawsuit.
According to committee members, the proposed expansion of the shelter has now been withdrawn. However, the city still plans to pursue an extension of the facility’s operation and intends to open dialogue with the local community to address concerns.
Due to the lack of transparency and consultation, the district committee has unanimously rejected the current plans for now.
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