Tornau’s industrial zoning reversal sparks fierce debate over transparency and climate risks
Tornau’s city council has voted to reassess an area near the town for potential industrial development. The decision overturns a 2019 ruling that previously blocked such use. But the move has sparked debate among councillors and local activists over public consultation and environmental concerns.
The council’s latest vote reverses an earlier resolution that had excluded industrial activity in the area. This shift has drawn criticism from residents and some politicians, who argue that the process lacks transparency.
Iris Bereuther of the Tornau Citizens’ Initiative condemned the timing of the vote, claiming it undermined public input. She argued that holding the assessment before a planned public meeting would make citizen feedback meaningless.
Christian Feigl of the Greens questioned the need for a new review, asking what had changed since 2019. He also raised concerns about the potential €100 million cost of developing the site. Ferdinand Raabe from Volt supported the idea of a public consultation but called for delaying the final decision until after residents had their say.
Environmental considerations were another key issue. Thomas Schied of the Left Party stressed the area’s role as a vital cold-air corridor, warning that industrial use could harm climate resilience. Katja Müller, also from the Left Party, predicted all motions would fail, pointing to a prior analysis that had already dismissed the site’s suitability.
Other councillors took different positions. Eric Eigendorf of the SPD pushed for a broader evaluation of Tornau’s urban areas to boost city revenue. Meanwhile, Alexander Raue of the AfD dismissed concerns about public opinion, arguing that past projects like the Neustadt mosque had proceeded without extensive consultation.
The council’s decision to reconsider industrial zoning has reopened old debates. Residents and some politicians now demand a delay to allow proper public discussion. The outcome will determine whether the area’s future prioritises economic development or environmental and community concerns.
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