Determined Move by Knauf on Gypsum Mine, Despite Citizen Votes in Lower Franconia
Knauf continues operation of gypsum mine despite public approval preference - Gypsum mine's ownership retained by Knauf following citizen's vote
Tensions run high in Altertheim, as build materials colossus Knauf persists in their intentions to construct a new gypsum mine in Lower Franconia - despite two successful citizen votes against the project. "Our project's green light remains," reiterated a Knauf representative, citing a steady legal landscape unperturbed by the votes.
"The power of approving this mining enterprise lies squarely in the hands of the responsible mining authority," the rep clarified. They stressed that the critical factors at play are expert assessments, strict legal prerequisites, and a well-established process that included Altertheim and all pertinent authorities since its inception.
Mining operations scheduled for 2027
Knauf, hailing from Iphofen (Kitzingen district), intends to excavate the mine within the Altertheimer Mulde, southwest of Würzburg. Mining activities are expected to commence around 2027, spanning approximately 7.1 square kilometers. Knauf predicts the presence of roughly 100 million tons of gypsum, with some 48 million tons being mineable.
The chosen mining site is in a region supplying Würzburg with its drinking water. Knauf guarantees that these activities will not disrupt the water supply. However, nature enthusiasts and others voice apprehensions.
"This vote serves as a resounding message to the political powers and authorities to prioritize the sanctity of drinking water above all else," stated Andrea Angenvoort-Baier, chairwoman of the Würzburg district group of Bund Naturschutz.
Decision impending by autumn
Over 300 objections have been lodged with the North Bavaria Mining Authority. Official decisions are anticipated in the autumn.
The Altertheim activists behind the citizen initiatives aim to impede the mine by legal means or halt Knauf from acquiring municipal properties. The votes were successful on Sunday, and Altertheim is now conducting a legal evaluation of the outcomes.
- Activism
- Lower Franconia
- Würzburg
- Activists in Altertheim, following the successful votes against Knauf's gypsum mine, have now initiated legal evaluations and are contemplating using legal means to impede the mine or prevent Knauf from acquiring municipal properties.
- Amidst concerns over the impact on Würzburg's drinking water supply, the activists' quest for community protection has become a significant voice in Lower Franconia's current industrial, finance, and energy landscape.
