New square named after Dirk Bach in Cologne
In a historic decision, the Higher Administrative Court of Münster has ruled in January that the inner-city district council of Cologne, Germany, has the right to name a square in the city after the late comedian Dirk Bach.
The square, located near the Cologne Schauspielhaus, has been a construction site for some time. The decision to name the square after Bach follows a court ruling in January 2023, and the city has already placed signs to reflect the change.
Bach, a native of Cologne, had a successful career in various fields, including television, theater, and voice acting. He was part of the ensemble at the Cologne Schauspielhaus at certain points in his career and was known for hosting the popular "Jungle Camp" show on television.
The naming decision for the square was the result of a long legal dispute between the Cologne city council and the inner-city district council, who had disagreements over who had the right to name the square. The Higher Administrative Court of Münster, as the competent appellate court for administrative disputes in North Rhine-Westphalia, reviewed the municipal decision and resolved the conflict.
The decision to name the square after Bach aims to remember the comedian, who passed away in 2012. The square's name change is a testament to the enduring impact Bach had on the city and its culture.
The square's name change, honoring the late comedian Dirk Bach, means residents and visitors can celebrate his legacy while exploring the city. This new public space, rich in entertainment history, is a fitting tribute to the celebrated comic, known for his television, theater, and voice acting roles, as well as hosting popular shows like "Jungle Camp."
