“The first milestone has been reached!” says Isabel Müller, research assistant at the Center for Social Research Halle (ZSH). It is providing scientific support to LandKiez e. V. in the implementation of its NEB_PROJECT “LandKiez.”
Isabel, you recently completed the planned village survey as part of the commissioned feasibility study. It kicked off with a town hall meeting in May 2025. How was the survey conducted?
Isabel Müller: From door to door! There are 109 households in Thondorf, which means we rang 109 doorbells. Fifty-seven doors opened for us, which is a good response rate of 53 percent! And in 80 percent of cases, my colleague or I were invited into kitchens or living rooms. We were given a very friendly welcome.
The discussions focused on a prepared questionnaire, ...
Isabel Müller: ... which was filled out together using an input mask. It contained questions about the situation in Thondorf, what people appreciate about village life, what is missing in the village, and what people could imagine in Thondorf or in the “LandKiez” on the former estate. There were many stories about the past, about the village restaurant, the cooperative store, and more clubs. Thondorf has a high average age and fewer inhabitants. Demographic change is a major issue.
What do people want?
Isabel Müller: More life in the village! Essentially, most respondents are interested in a mix of public services and social interaction, such as a bakery or restaurant, but above all a permanent meeting place for exchange and socializing. Like at the Christmas market last December at the LandKiez-Hof. People view the association's commitment positively, as well as the fact that there is now funding available for “their little Thondorf” as part of the NEB. It stands to reason that not all respondents want to take responsibility for this “extra” life themselves. But many are willing to get involved and would enjoy doing so. We were able to hear this in our conversations.
What happens next?
Isabel Müller: We are now evaluating the extensive material and using the results as the basis for our second milestone. This is scheduled for 2026: four workshops under the motto “Generational Visions.” These will focus on developing ideas for all age groups in Thondorf and the “LandKiez.”
Thank you very much for talking to us!
The interview was conducted by Cornelia Heller on behalf of NEB_NETWORKOFFICE Sachsen-Anhalt.
