Last week, construction of the new central heating plant in Echternach was halted after several administrative violations came to light. As it turned out, Mayor Yves Wengler gave green light to workers without having the proper authorisation from the Nature Administration and the Water Management Authority.
The Nature Administration halted construction of the new heating plant after three trees were cut down without permission. The Water Management Authority, however, is entirely against the designated location of the new building, as the area is considered at risk of flooding.
Furthermore, officials stated that they never received notice about the project in the first place. Our colleagues from RTL have now spoken to Mayor Wengler, who provided insight into his take on the situation.
Legally questionable, but necessary due to time pressure
The politician from the Christian Social People’s Party (CSV) explained that he has now more information than he had on 18 July when he informed the municipal council that he was in possession of the necessary authorisations.
Mayor Wengler explained that building requests were already filed in January this year and that he was surprised to still not have been granted authorisation. The document also concerned more than just the trees, it also discussed the location of a new car park.
After six months, he was informed that the request had been received, but that officials still demanded more information.
The politician noted that there was time pressure since the local school and gymnasium will both rely on the new heating plant by beginning of next year. He thus decided to move ahead with the removal of the trees, even without having explicit authorisation to do so.
Although wrong from a legal standpoint, Mayor Wengler believes that he acted in the best interest of the project.
After having been in contact with both administrations, the Echternach Council of Aldermen is now optimistic that all necessary permissions are in order.
Area no longer labelled a ‘Green Zone’
The fact that the heating plant is to be installed alongside the Sûre river remains problematic, as this used to be considered a ‘Green Zone’ and at risk of flooding.
However, Mayor Wengler stressed that a modification of the General Building Plan (PAG) for the area had been approved by the Minister for Home Affairs in 2018. This document regulates that the area has since been a ‘Zone for Public Buildings and Equipment’, which means that a heating plant can be constructed on location.
The opposition on the Echternach municipal council has yet to take a position on the issue. In the meantime, a lawsuit agains the construction of the plant has been filed with the court of administration.
