Aussichtspunkt Gellinghausen

As part of the Altenau I land consolidation project, land along the Altenau River and the Gellinghauser Quellbach stream was acquired in Gellinghausen near Borchen. By assuming responsibility for the maintenance of the Gellinghausen Quellbach, WOL was able to plan and carry out the restoration of the approximately 500-meter-long stream, which had been channeled for mill use and runs at a high elevation.

The building complex of the former Gellinghausen Mill, which was part of the property, had to be completely demolished due to its severely deteriorated structural condition. The demolition and disposal of materials—some of which posed a risk to water and the environment—were financed with compensation funds from the Paderborn district, thereby making the restoration of the Gellinghauser Quellbach on the approximately 3-hectare site possible in the first place.

With the restoration completed in March 2021, the various springs in the mill ditch were allowed to flow freely into the available area. Thanks to the existing structures in the area, a large-scale wetland area was created, in which shallow, water-plant-dominated spring channels have naturally formed.

Due to its prominent location along the heavily trafficked hiking and biking trail between Kirchborchen and Etteln, a viewing and information point—co-funded by LEADER—was erected in 2023 to educate the public about the background and objectives of the project, which also contributes to climate protection. Designed as a recreational space with seating and access to the water, the area is intended to invite visitors to linger and explore.