Border triangle: Insolvency proceedings threaten lift operations in winter

Border triangle: Insolvency proceedings threaten lift operations in winter

In March of this year, insolvency proceedings were opened over the Dreiländereck mountain railways, which represents a challenging situation for the community leaders of Arnoldstein and the residents. Mayor Reinhard Antolitsch informed us about the current status and described the difficulties arising from the insolvency proceedings.

The procedure is supervised by the liquidator Joachim Bucher and is a lengthy process that is accompanied, among other things, by efforts to find new investors for the mountain railways. “We have held discussions with nine investor groups over the past two years and are currently in discussions with four of them,” explained Antolitsch. Despite these efforts, it looks like lift operations will not be possible next winter. Especially since there is a lack of the necessary infrastructure, personnel and financial resources.

The perspective for winter

A smaller solution with a practice lift was currently being discussed, but this is difficult to implement due to the challenges under insolvency law. “If, contrary to expectations, it is possible, the question arises as to how the operation can be organized,” said Antolitsch. Integration into existing systems, such as the “Carinthian Ski Pass”, as well as the technical requirements to implement even limited lift operation are missing.

The situation also remains unclear for tourers. Antolitsch is skeptical as to whether an official business can be set up for them, as there are still too many unanswered questions. “Company liability, use of the areas and the preparation of the slopes are all points that need to be clarified,” he continued.

Future of the border triangle

“We want to ensure accessibility to the border triangle,” said Antolitsch, expressing his hopes for the future. This place is not only a unique point in Europe, but also connects three countries, cultures and languages. The municipality is aiming for an investor to take over the cable cars and further develop the entire area for year-round operation. Such an investment would not only benefit winter tourism, but could also provide attractive offers in summer, which would be crucial for the economic stability of the region.

“The landowners are even willing to make over a hectare of land available for summer tourist attractions,” he added. The opportunity to make the tri-state area a year-round destination could be crucial to maintaining the region's appeal.

The general mood among the population is characterized by a strong desire to maintain the lifts. "The citizens agree that it would be a great shame if the facilities no longer worked. The border triangle is the only children's and family ski area near Villach," noted Antolitsch. Maintaining this infrastructure is important not only for the locals, but also for future tourists who want to learn to ski in this region.

At the same time, however, it is clear that the community alone is not able to overcome these challenges. “We need a solidarity between investors, property owners, the tourism region, the municipality and the state of Carinthia,” emphasized the mayor. It remains to be seen whether this cooperation will enable us to find new paths for the border triangle in the coming period and thus secure an important part of the regional tourism infrastructure. For a deeper analysis and further information on this topic see the report on www.meinkreis.at.