Tax money waste: Schlei receives old ferry back for 50,000 euros!
Tax money waste: Schlei receives old ferry back for 50,000 euros!
In the Schleswig-Holstein area, a failed project ensures a lot of conversation. The construction of a modern electric ferry was planned to replace the old diesel ferry "Missund II". But in recent years there have been more hurdles than progress, which is increasingly causing criticism.
The problems so far started in 2019 when a feasibility study was commissioned by the state of the old ferry. Since the "Missound II" was no longer considered reliable, the state government decided in 2021 to commission a new ferry that should also have solar panels. The total costs of the project add up to 3.3 million euros, and the completion was originally planned for autumn 2022.
delays and additional costs
However, the project quickly began to emphasize as a more complicated than expected. Low water levels and difficulties in the procurement of electronic components repeatedly led to delays. Ultimately, the test drives only began in January 2024, which put the patience of residents and commuters to the test. In the meantime, the old ferry was sold, which required additional detours for the users.
The new ferry, "Missunde III", should shine with a variety of modern features, but as early as March 2024 there were significant defects. From wind force 3, the ferry was no longer able to create safely, which resulted in unresolved construction errors. The inadequate mooring options, which made it necessary to convert the infrastructure, were particularly problematic.
retrofitting and buyback of the old ferry
In April 2024 a real bang was recorded: the state of Schleswig-Holstein was forced to buy the old "Missund II" back and paid for around 50,000 euros. The waterway and shipping authority had extended the operating license for the discarded ferry by 2028, which enabled the old ferry again.
The plans for the new "Missunde III" are now setting a new time frame: an order position is now only being targeted for the end of 2025.
But the difficulties don't stop here. In September 2024, the country had to raise 50,000 euros again for the "Missunde II" because the Danish buyer had negotiated a right of repurchase that brought with it a not inconsiderable financial risk.
In view of the increasing expenditure, the Situation is difficult to understand for many. Overall, the construction costs for the new ferry now amount to around four million euros, around 700,000 euros more than originally estimated. "In our eyes, an idea is adhered to here that is not portable in the implementation. Tax money is burned here," said concerned citizens in an online petition that calls for the preservation of "Missunde II".The problem not only has a financial character - it also affects the mobility and quality of life of the people in the region. It remains to be seen how those responsible will react to the current challenges and what measures are taken to solve the situation, as reported .