Hessischer Rundfunk Opens New Regional Studio in Darmstadt
Hessischer Rundfunk has opened a new regional studio in the Bessungen district of Darmstadt, relocating from its long-standing home in the city center after two decades, hessenschau.de reported. Intendant Florian Hager welcomed political, economic, and association representatives, including Darmstadt’s Lord Hanno Benz, to the official inauguration ceremony on Tuesday.
Changing Media Trends and Digital Reach
The relocation comes as public broadcasters adapt to changing audience habits and digital integration. Program Director Julia Krittian highlighted the network’s growing online footprint during the opening event, noting that the hessenschau website reaches roughly 450,000 people daily. The dedicated mobile application records about 180,000 views, while social media channels like Instagram and TikTok continue to post rising engagement figures.
Hager emphasized that maintaining public visibility requires physical proximity to communities. “We have to consider how we remain visible as a public service media house in the future,” Hager said. “And we at Hessischer Rundfunk are convinced that this is only possible if we are even closer to the people.”
Sanitation issues force move to Bessungen facility
The public broadcaster’s previous regional hub near Luisensplatz in the inner city had to be abandoned last year due to sanitation reasons. The new facility now operates out of Heidelberger Straße 44 in Bessungen. While the transition was underway and the new space was being prepared, staff members handled editorial duties largely through remote work.
Lord Mayor Benz praised the studio’s local presence as a bulwark against online misinformation during the ceremony. “That is why I am glad that the hr is continuing its South Hesse regional reporting here in Darmstadt and that we continue to have serious media outlets with our public-service broadcasters,” Benz said.
Public can contact editorial team via email
Citizens can visit the new location in Bessungen for inquiries, though the facility does not maintain fixed public opening hours. The editorial team remains accessible via email at Studio-Darmstadt@hr.de or by telephone at 06151-3966010.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Studio Relocation
Why did the regional studio leave its inner-city location?
The previous office near Luisensplatz had to be vacated last year due to sanitation reasons, prompting the move to the Bessungen district.
How can residents reach the new Darmstadt office?
Visitors can visit the new facility at Heidelberger Straße 44, though there are no regular opening hours. The team accepts inquiries by email at Studio-Darmstadt@hr.de and by phone at 06151-3966010.
What digital audience numbers does the broadcaster report?
Program Director Julia Krittian stated that hessenschau.de reaches approximately 450,000 people daily, while the mobile app records about 180,000 views alongside growth on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
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