The lighthouse is the oldest building in Hamburg and on the North Sea coast. The Landesbetrieb Immobilienmanagement und Grundvermögen (LIG), which is part of the Ministry of Finance and Districts, is due to renovate the lighthouse at a cost of €22 million from 2026, which will see it become a quirky hotel and restaurant in future. Housing is particularly scarce on the island. A 100-year-old barn and the former Spritzenhaus are being converted into four flats and a shop for the managers and their employees. The conversion is due to finish in early 2026. "Hamburg is taking responsibility for developing Neuwerk Island and the people who live there. We reaffirmed that in the coalition agreement for the new electoral term. The investments in the lighthouse, the courtyards , the refurbishment and the new flats will come to a total of €40 million in the coming years," said Andreas Dressel Senator for Finance.
The City of Hamburg is investing €40 million in the isle of Neuwerk in the Wadden Sea (Mudflat Sea), a press release said Sunday (August 28, 2025). Hopes are now high that the investment will stem the flow of emgration from the island. To this end, the city is seeking leaseholders for two farms that it has purchased as well as for the lighthouse, which is due to be renovated. However, two local catering and hotel businesses have failed to find new owners. The Mudflat Sea is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Investment in monuments and accommodation
New building for national park
Plans are also being laid for flats to house employees. The Hamburg Wadden Sea National Park is a popular tourist destination and a key nature conservation site. The visitor centre is also being expanded to include a new residential unit, photovoltaic system and air heat pump.
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