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The Chemical Industry Estate Marl

After the First World War the economy of the Ruhrgebiet drew breath and embarked on renewed expansion. Here, north of Marl, progress was first primarily underground. But on the surface the signs of a new era were noticeable next to the pit and the spoil tip. The two collieries were connected by rail to the Recklinghausen-Műnster line which had opened in 1870, and in 1930 another important transportation route, the Wesel-Datteln Canal, was opened right next to them. These provided almost ideal transport conditions.

The Nazi thirst for power and planning mania of the National Socialists did not stop at the borders of the Drewer Mark in the urban district of Hűls. In order to build up their armaments equipment the Nazis wanted nothing less than complete autarchy in the rubber industry. They therefore coerced the three large IG Farben plants which hade been operating since 1925 to increase production of synthetic rubber. After searching for a suitable location in the Ruhrgebiet, in 1938 they decided to set up the Hűls Chemical Works on a site north of Marl.. The production site, designed along identical chess-board lines, was of gigantic proportions.

The dismantling of IG Farben concern into smaller units in the late 1940s spelt the liberation of the chemical works in Hűls and the start of a new era. Everywhere in the world the motor industry was booming, and the constant growth in automobile production marked the end of the enforced stoppage following the war. Pre-existing structures were taken over for post-war production. Depending on demand, new chess-board like structures were added to the older ones like building blocks, and more and more functions were united on the site. Nowadays several power stations north of the canal supply the site with energy. The clarification plant in the North has also been considerably enlarged. A harbour directly connected with the plant and a motorway link have also perfected accessibility and transportation. The Auguste Victoria pit is also still in operation on the outskirts of the Chemical park, and the colliers still go up and down shaft three as they always have done.

North of Marl the plants provide a wide range of chemical products. Here in Hűls there is a workforce of 10,000, and it is no surprise that the old housing estate in the district of Brassert is being extended. Yet to the south, in particular, there is still a huge of amount of greenery. There are not only recreation areas and an open-air swimming bath in the shadow of the gigantic chemical plant, but even agricultural activities. Visitors can learn more about the memorable history and lively future of the chemical industry and get a glimpse behind the scenes at the Chemical Industry Estate in Marl. The tower block on the site offers them a unique view over the plant, the town and the whole region. The Information Centre in the historic “Feierabendhaus” has an exhibition on the history and current developments of the chemical plant site. And afterwards you can relax in the inviting café/restaurant nearby.