New life for the playground

WTSH online editorial team: This coveted site had been lying fallow for many years. What ultimately prompted you to invest now? 

Tim Thelosen: It wasn't a spur-of-the-moment decision, but was based solely on the fact that, for many years, there were no options for us on the seller's side. Since we ‘lost’ the property in 2011, we have been closely monitoring its further development. It was clear to us that the Fehmarn Belt Fixed Link would create enormous tourist and economic potential here on Fehmarn, which would also be ideal for Fehmarn at this location, which is already popular with tourists – in the centre of the southern beach peninsula. Fehmarn is already a nationally renowned holiday destination. In Scandinavia, however, Fehmarn is still relatively unknown as a holiday destination. It is not only obvious that this will change with the Fehmarn Belt Fixed Link, but everyone can already see it today. You only need to look at the developments in the regions around the Öresund Bridge or the Great Belt Bridge. A lot has happened there!

WTSH online editorial team: What exactly will be built here – on one of the most sought-after sites on Fehmarn?

Tim Thelosen: The Austrian Familux hotel group will build a family resort here with around 120 family suites. The so-called ‘Haus des Gastes’ (House of Guests) by Danish star architect Arne Jacobsen will also be renovated in line with conservation guidelines and is expected to be opened to the public with a restaurant and a shop. In addition, we are building approximately 120 additional hotel apartments and approximately 140 holiday apartments, divided into a total of four so-called beach villas. Stationary traffic will be accommodated in a large garage under the site.

WTSH online editorial team: The investment volume is a ‘big number’. What challenges does the development of such an area entail? 

Tim Thelosen: In this case, it is particularly the total size of approximately 2.6 hectares of land – this alone poses economic challenges in terms of the value of the land in this prime location. Getting such a transaction off the ground financially is a challenge. In addition, many urban planning regulations had to be agreed with the local authority, which on the one hand give us the necessary scope for action, but on the other hand also take municipal interests into account. Furthermore, the listed ‘Haus des Gastes’ (Guest House), which is in need of renovation. This involves creating an overall design that is as harmonious as possible, but also future-oriented, within the framework of the existing building regulations. We attach great importance to high-quality architecture that also allows for contemporary, sustainable use. We are already in intensive discussions with the architectural firm Matteo Thun and Partners from Milan.

WTSH online editorial team: On a personal note: How important was the WTSH ‘Hotel Development’ service in your investment decision?

Tim Thelosen: One thing is clear: the initial contact between Familux and us was established and facilitated by WTSH location consultant Petra Stangenberg. Not only did she continue to provide us with active support and advice, but as an outside third party, she was also able to clarify accompanying questions from politicians and administrators. Her in-depth expertise helped us immensely throughout the entire process, enabling us to form our own neutral opinion. In addition to her expertise, the positive and motivating support she provided in all matters played a role that should not be underestimated, and which WTSH fulfilled excellently throughout the entire period. This support was clearly groundbreaking.

WTSH online editorial team In your opinion, what impetus will the development of the area provide for tourism in the region?

Tim Thelosen: The focus here is very specifically on high-quality tourism, which will have a corresponding impact on the entire region. In my opinion, the impetus will be manifold. The economic impetus will come from new purchasing power, and over 200 new jobs will also be created. The tourism boost will greatly invigorate the off-season, and by specifically targeting families as a target group, Fehmarn's appeal as a ‘family island’ destination will be further enhanced. Furthermore, environmentally friendly technologies and materials in the new building will create momentum in the area of sustainability. Ultimately, Fehmarn already has many great campsites, holiday farms and holiday homes – but there is still a lack of modern holiday hotels.

The interview was conducted by Ute Leinigen.