Hünfeld 'strongly affected': Arguments for Fulda-Main pipeline barely considered

The city of Hünfeld feels 'strongly affected' by the plans for the Fulda-Main pipeline and regrets that the city's arguments have so far only been partially considered by the planners and the Federal Network Agency. 'The city area of Hünfeld will be affected by the route from the Haune meadows...

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2025 December 20 . 2:03 PM

1 min read

As we can see in the image there is train, railway track, cars, current poles, trees and sky.

Hünfeld 'strongly affected': Arguments for Fulda-Main pipeline barely considered

Plans for a new high-voltage power line between Fulda and Main have drawn strong objections from Hünfeld. The town, located in Hessen’s Osthessen region, claims it will be severely impacted by the project. While some concerns have been addressed, key issues remain unresolved as construction looms between 2027 and 2029.

The proposed transmission line will cut through the Haune floodplains, pass near Sargenzell, and extend into the Praforst recreation area. Two minor adjustments were made to the route: one near the grotto in Sargenzell and another relocating a cable transition station. Despite these changes, the plan still requires clearing around 20 hectares of woodland in a popular outdoor area.

The line will also run dangerously close to a holiday home settlement within the Praforst municipal forest. Hünfeld’s mayor, Benjamin Tschesnok, has called on the Federal Network Agency to take the town’s concerns more seriously. However, legal options to challenge the project remain limited due to strict regulatory rules. Critics warn that the so-called 'temporary forest conversion' may take decades to restore the ecological value of the old-growth woodland. The loss of mature trees and habitat could have long-term effects on the area’s biodiversity.

Construction is set to begin in 2027, with completion expected by 2029. The project will move forward despite ongoing opposition from Hünfeld. While small route adjustments have been made, the environmental and community impacts remain a major point of contention.