Mega logistics center in Auhof: Protests stop urban project!

Mega logistics center in Auhof: Protests stop urban project!

The city of Vienna has stopped the plans for a mega logistics center in Auhof, which was to be built on 50,000 square meters. This step took place after massive protests by residents who have been defending themselves against the project for a long time. The Hietzinger FPÖ district party chairman Mag. Georg Heinreichsberger expressed his joy about the stop and described him as the success of the common protest of citizens and the party. The ignoring of existing local suppliers, increased traffic loads and the associated environmental aspects were particularly criticized. There were also allegations that the city wanted to act behind the back of the population. The FPÖ is now demanding sustainable projects that create real added value for the residents.

Heinreichsberger proposes a modern sports center for children and adolescents instead of the logistics center. In view of the critical voices in the district, this idea is well received, especially with regard to the years of development of the project, which is subsequently considered not very advantageous for the community. The protests against the project are in greater connection with a broader resistance to similar logistics projects in the region.

Resistance to logistics centers in the area

Similar to Vienna, Massive Resistance in Villach is also formed against the construction of a logistics center in a nature reserve. The “Rett Ma Die Schütt” citizens' initiative has been campaigning against the project for 18 years, which aims to upgrade from Carinthia as a business location. Critics fear that developments could have negative effects on the wildlife, especially on protected bird species. In cooperation with the German Logistics Holding (DLH), the city of Villach is leading the planning for the logistics center "Alplog Nord", whereby the entire area of ​​18.3 hectares is controversial.

The discussion about such logistics projects and their effects seems to be of great importance not only locally, but also regionally. The different citizens' initiatives and protest actions illustrate the growing discomfort of the population with regard to area sealing and the associated ecological consequences.