Consulted by the Commission on the proposed legislation.

Herne-Horsthausen Allotment Garden Association: A Piece of Industrial History in Green

In the heart of the industrial area of Horsthausen, a district in Herne, Germany, lies the Kleingartenverein Herne-Horsthausen. Established in 1919, this allotment garden association has stood the test of time, surviving over a century while maintaining a deep connection to the region's coal mining history.

The organization's location suggests it may have been established to provide green spaces or gardening opportunities in an otherwise industrialized area. The exact nature of its industrial history, however, is not specified. What is known is that the majority of its founders were miners from the local mine, and the organization's connection to the local coal mining industry remains significant.

One of the most striking features of the Kleingartenverein Herne-Horsthausen is the mine cart at its entrance, which has been meticulously restored by the local heritage group of the association. This restored cart, along with a painting in the allotment garden featuring a mine motif, recently underwent renovation with a new design. These restorations suggest ongoing efforts to preserve the organization's historical ties.

The painting, which has been admired for decades, now boasts a design that cleverly combines gardening and industrial history themes. This fusion of past and present is a testament to the association's resilience and its commitment to honouring its roots.

Despite being over a hundred years old, Kleingartenverein Herne-Horsthausen continues to exist, offering a unique blend of industrial heritage and green spaces in the heart of an industrial area. The organization's story is one of survival, adaptation, and a deep-rooted connection to the history of coal mining in Herne.

As for the current status and activities of Kleingartenverein Herne-Horsthausen, further information is not provided in the available text. However, the restoration efforts and the continued existence of the association indicate a vibrant community that cherishes its past and is dedicated to preserving it for future generations.