In his interview, Dan Biancalana stated that Dudelange as an industrial town is going through "difficult times", a situation which he described as worrying.
The glass manufacturer Guardian will definitely close its Dudelange plant, while Liberty Steel is facing bankruptcy. 250 jobs are at stake.
Regarding Liberty Steel, the Dudelange Mayor still hopes for state intervention.
Biancalana stressed that Dudelange and its two industrial zones must not be "forgotten", in particular when government officials travelled abroad to negotiate with foreign investors.
The municipality wants to hold on to its status as an industrial town, Biancalana added. For this reason, the MP from the Luxembourg Socialist Workers' Party (LSAP) also welcomed the fact that the recent tensions at Eurofoil have been resolved.
On the other hand, Biancalana acknowledged that diversification is also important, listing the National Health Laboratory (LNS) and its subsidiaries as well as the logistics industry as other important pillars for the local economy.
Regarding housing, Biancalana stated that the municipality is also "very active", pointing to the new Neischmelz neighbourhood. Around 1,000 housing units are to be built there over the next 10-15 years.
The goal is to combine a modern aesthetic with the industrial heritage of the region. The location is already in use and features community gardens as well as areas dedicated to cultural and sports activities. It will also be used in the context of the cultural year 2022, Biancalana announced and stressed that "falling asleep" was not an option for the municipality.
When it comes to crime, Dudelange is a "safe town", according to its mayor. Nevertheless, with over 21,000 residents, Dudelange is also "not an island", Biancalana acknowledged.
Biancalana is sceptical regarding the deployment of private security companies, stating that matters of internal security must remain in the hands of the police.
