Aussichtspunkt Gellinghausen

As part of the Altenau I land consolidation process, land was acquired in Gellinghausen near Borchen along the Altenau and Gellinghauser Quellbach streams. By assuming the maintenance obligation for the Gellinghauser Quellbach stream, the WOL was able to plan and implement the renaturation of the 500-metre-long spring stream, which was used as a mill and is located on high ground.
The building complex of the former Gellinghauser mill belonging to the area was completely dismantled due to its ageing structure. The dismantling and disposal of the materials, some of which were hazardous to water and the environment, was financed with replacement funds from the Paderborn district and thus made the renaturation of the spring stream on the approximately 3-hectare site possible in the first place.
With the renaturation implemented in March 2021, the various springs in the Mühlengraben were diverted freely into the available area. Due to the existing structures in the area, it was possible to create an extensively wetted area in which shallow spring channels dominated by aquatic plants have developed independently.
Due to the exposed location along the highly frequented hiking and cycling trail between Kirchborchen and Etteln, a viewpoint and information point co-financed by LEADER was erected in 2023 to inform the public about the background and objectives of the measure, which also contributes to climate protection. Designed as a recreational area with seating and access to the water, the square is intended to invite people to linger and explore.