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Saxony-Anhalt faces backlash over 21 road project expropriations in 2023

A political storm brews as landowners resist seizures for highway projects. Why are 20 of 21 cases still dragging on—and is the government's stance truly fair?

The image shows a building with boarded up windows and a sign on the side of it that reads...
The image shows a building with boarded up windows and a sign on the side of it that reads "Affordable Housing". There are stairs with railings leading up to the building, and a road at the bottom of the image.

Left Accuses CDU of Hypocrisy in Expropriations - Saxony-Anhalt faces backlash over 21 road project expropriations in 2023

Saxony-Anhalt saw 21 expropriation cases launched last year for road projects. The state’s Left Party has accused the CDU-led government of applying double standards over land seizures. Officials insist most cases relate to smaller upgrades rather than major motorway expansions. The expropriations cover three main projects: the B176 upgrade, roadworks between Thale and Westerhausen, and improvements to the B71/B248 in Salzwedel. Only one of the 21 proceedings has been resolved, with 20 still active.

Eva von Angern, leader of the Left Party’s parliamentary group, criticised the CDU for opposing expropriation in principle while using it for highway schemes. She claimed the government’s stance was inconsistent, allowing seizures for infrastructure but not for other purposes. Autobahn GmbH clarified that none of the current cases involve the A14 northern extension. The agency stressed it prefers negotiated settlements with landowners and has previously withdrawn several applications to avoid legal disputes.

The dispute highlights tensions over land use for transport projects in Saxony-Anhalt. With most cases still unresolved, negotiations between authorities and property owners remain ongoing. The Left Party continues to challenge the government’s approach to compulsory purchases.

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