Border lock's old customs house undergoing renovation
The old navy customs house, a significant historical structure in the Weser-Ems region, is undergoing a much-anticipated renovation. The project, which received funding from the city of Nordhorn, state, and EU grants, including a contribution from the Sparkasse Foundation, commenced recently on the Nordhorn-Almelo Canal, directly at the border with the Netherlands.
Mayor Thomas Berling expressed his pleasure at the timely start of the renovation work, ensuring it would be completed before winter. He was joined by Architect Johannes Hensen and City Building Director Thimo Weitemeier for the presentation of the renovation plans.
Weitemeier voiced his sentiment that it would have been a shame if the old navy customs house, the only surviving historical structure of its kind in the region, had disappeared over time. The building, which was used alongside an adjacent customs residence, was opened in 1904 and served for the clearance of shipping traffic on the German-Dutch waterway.
During the renovation, the timber-framed outer walls, roof surfaces, windows, doors, and floor coverings of the old navy customs house will be replaced. The building section protruding into the Nordhorn-Almelo Canal was secured last winter and now stands on screw foundations in the water.
Once renovated, the old navy customs house will primarily serve for cross-border events, exhibitions, or receptions. Mayor Berling anticipates a great opening ceremony for the renovated old navy customs house next year, making it a tourist attraction for both tourists and locals.
The city purchased the old navy customs house from private ownership two years ago, investing a total budget of 190,000 euros for the renovation project. The city of Nordhorn is contributing 36,000 euros to the project, with the remainder being funded by state and EU grants.
The renovation is expected to be completed by the middle of next year, ensuring the preservation of this important piece of regional history for future generations.
