"Mahnwache" against construction project in Breitenfurt - Legal dispute looms
A legal battle is brewing in Breitenfurt over a 25-acre plot earmarked for development. Landowner BIP Immobilienverwaltung GmbH has warned it will escalate the dispute to Austria’s Constitutional Court if no resolution is reached by January 23. The proposed 'Wiesenpark' project faces strong opposition from locals and the Green Party over concerns about flooding and infrastructure strain.
The conflict centres on whether the municipality must approve zoning for the 'Wiesenpark Breitenfurt' development. BIP’s lawyer, Michael Mendel, insists decades of legal precedent support their case and expects the Constitutional Court to rule in their favour. He argues the land cannot be indefinitely blocked from development.
Opposition remains fierce, with the Green Party and citizens’ group 'Future Breitenfurt' warning of risks to flood defences and local services. Over 150 residents recently gathered for a 'vigil of silent protest and lights of hope,' organised by activist Marianne Gabler. Many question whether BIP would actually win in court. Mayor Wolfgang Schredl (ÖVP) has cast doubt on meeting the January 23 deadline, citing unresolved issues. The council fears losing control over the project’s design and forfeiting a €6 million infrastructure contribution if the case turns against them. If the dispute reaches the Supreme Court of Austria (Oberster Gerichtshof), its ruling will be final. As the highest civil court, its decisions cannot be appealed further, leaving no room for additional legal challenges.
The January 23 deadline now looms over Breitenfurt’s council and BIP Immobilienverwaltung GmbH. If no agreement is reached, the Constitutional Court will decide the fate of the 25-acre site. The outcome will determine whether the 'Wiesenpark' project proceeds—and whether the municipality retains its influence over the development.
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