At the invitation of the Industrieverband Hamburg e.V. (IVH) industrial association we were delighted to welcome Dr. Andreas Dressel, Head of the Department of Finance and Districts of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, to WTM Engineers last week.
In front of numerous IVH members and other guests, Senator Dressel presented the Senate’s “Einfach.Hamburg” (“Simply.Hamburg”) initiative and explained how the authorities are planning to simplify bureaucratic processes and accelerate approval procedures. For the construction industry in particular, faster processes and clear decision-making powers are an important step.
In his welcoming address, Dr. Stefan Ehmann emphasized the importance of pragmatic cooperation with the building supervisory authorities, as well as the expansion of digital exchange platforms as a logical next step in the development of the existing digital building application process.
Other topics were also discussed, such as making working hours more flexible and recognition of international professional qualifications.
A particularly positive aspect was the open and constructive exchange of views with all present, whereby it soon emerged that the political and business communities share the common goal of seeking to further strengthen Hamburg as a business location through leaner processes and less bureaucracy.
Many thanks to Senator Andreas Dressel, the IVH, and all participants for the invaluable discussions and their willingness to address the concerns of Hamburg’s business community directly.
