Individuals forced to leave abruptly.

In the heart of Munich's Schwabing-West district, at the intersection of Agnesstraße and Zentnerstraße, stands a peculiar structure known as the "Jungle House." This building, overgrown with ivy and weeds, has been a notable feature of the cityscape for six years, its windows visible through the overgrown bush.

Originally, the investor who acquired the "Jungle House" in October 2020 was granted an exemption permit, with the condition that they would create "replacement housing" in Pasing. However, the completion of this project, which was scheduled to be within three years, has yet to materialise.

The "Jungle House" was previously home to residents who were forced out due to increased rents and lack of repairs. Before it was placed under historical protection to prevent demolition, the building was under threat. Interestingly, one of its former residents was a classmate of Paul Bachmann, a computer science student at TU Munich who lives in the neighbourhood and often visits the university library with a view of the "Jungle House."

Paul Bachmann, who has joined the Left party's AG "Housing and Rent," has expressed his frustration with the vacant property. "Leaving residential space empty in a city suffering from a significant housing shortage is not acceptable," he stated.

The Social Affairs Department claims that the investor has neglected to build the replacement housing in Pasing, leading to the permit for misuse through demolition of the "Jungle House" being withdrawn. The city of Munich forbids the unjustified vacancy of houses, and concrete steps will be taken to end the misuse of the property once the decision becomes final.

The balcony of the "Jungle House" contains flower pots, adding a touch of irony to the situation. The "Jungle House" is considered a failed real estate project, and the construction site at Agnesstraße 48 remains a frequently observable phenomenon in Munich.

As the city continues to grapple with its housing crisis, the vacant "Jungle House" serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in ensuring affordable housing for all.