Luxembourg currently has 100 municipalities, a number expected to decrease due to ongoing merger discussions. While recent attention has focused on the Nordstad project, another significant merger is being explored further north, between Boulaide and Commune Lac de la Haute-Sûre.
The idea has been discussed locally for years but had stalled until mid-2025, when both municipal councils approved formal exploratory talks. Our colleagues from RTL Radio recently spoke with the mayors involved – Jeff Gangler of Boulaide and Marco Koeune of Commune Lac de la Haute-Sûre – about the renewed initiative.
Mayor Gangler explained the change in momentum, noting his commune has consistently taken a proactive stance. He cited Boulaide’s earlier push for a referendum and said discussions were unlocked when the coalition agreement of the governing parties in Commune Lac de la Haute-Sûre created an opening, allowing them to find common ground relatively quickly.
Mayor Koeune highlighted the region’s existing cooperative foundations, pointing to the jointly operated regional school attended by over 500 children. “We are used to working and thinking regionally. A merger is another opportunity to work together more efficiently”, Koeune stated.
The formal process, which began in November, started with meetings between the two municipal executive boards. Their first joint session was held at the Ministry of Home Affairs to gather information and consult with its Independent Municipal Mergers Unit. The boards now meet approximately every three weeks to advance the exploratory phase.
The year 2026 marks the halfway point of the current legislative period. Mayor Gangler stated that the executive boards intend to hold the merger referendum before the next local elections in 2029. However, he acknowledged significant work remains, including securing approval from their respective local councils and engaging the public. “Regarding the timeline, a referendum should take place within this legislative period”, Gangler reiterated.
Mayor Koeune confirmed this schedule, noting that workshops for residents will be organised ahead of the vote. He added that the pace of progress will depend on the ongoing exploratory talks.
While focused on their own merger, the two communes had also invited the municipality of Winseler to join the discussions. Winseler declined the offer. Mayor Koeune stated that the decision is respected, but left the door open, saying a future Winseler council could revisit the possibility.
For now, Boulaide and Commune Lac de la Haute-Sûre are proceeding bilaterally. The mayors are cautious about releasing detailed plans prematurely. They intend to first brief their local councils – an expected step in February – and have expressed concern that excessive early scrutiny could jeopardise the project before it gains momentum.
If approved, the new municipality would have nearly 4,000 inhabitants. With an area of 80 square kilometres, it would become the country’s third-largest commune by size, after Wincrange and Clervaux.
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