In Weilachtal: Dismantling of electricity pylons will start soon!

In Weilachtal: Dismantling of electricity pylons will start soon!

Significant changes are coming in the picturesque “Weilachtal” landscape protection area in the coming weeks. Nine old electricity pylons from the dismantled overhead line between Aufhausen and Schiltberg will be removed. These measures, which are coordinated by Bayernwerk AG, are expected to begin soon, depending on the weather. In order to be able to carry out the construction work smoothly, construction roads are temporarily being laid with mobile construction panels. Some protected reeds and trees will also have to be cut back to make the work possible, but the responsible authorities have signaled that no significant impact on protected areas is expected.

The lower nature conservation authority at the Aichach-Friedberg district office was involved in the planning at an early stage. All nature conservation issues were resolved quickly and amicably. If damage occurs to the affected properties during the dismantling work, this will of course be repaired after the work has been completed.

Protection status and importance of landscape protection areas

Landscape protection areas (LSG) are an important part of nature conservation in Germany. They are designated for various ecological and cultural reasons and aim to preserve the uniqueness and peculiarity of the respective landscapes. LSGs make up almost a third of the country's area nationwide and protect both natural landscapes and cultural landscapes, which also include areas used for agriculture and forestry. The legal basis for these protected areas is anchored in the Federal Nature Conservation Act, in particular in accordance with Section 26 Paragraph 1 BNatSchG, which also regulates the designation of LSG.

There are currently 8,903 landscape protection areas in Germany, covering a total area of ​​around 10.1 million hectares. Particularly high proportions of LSG can be found in North Rhine-Westphalia, while the proportions are lower in other federal states, such as Schleswig-Holstein. The legal regulations ensure that measures that could change the character of an LSG are hardly permitted and new buildings in these areas are generally excluded. In this way, the natural balance is secured and the regenerative ability of natural assets is preserved.

Protection and use in harmony with nature

Although the usage restrictions in LSG are usually kept to a minimum, they are intended to support nature's performance in the long term. Agricultural activities or forestry are still permitted as long as they do not negatively impact conservation purposes. A crucial aspect is that LSG not only promote the preservation of nature, but also serve as recreational spaces for people. In this way, land consumption through settlements and infrastructure measures is sensibly reduced, which is particularly important in a densely populated country like Germany.

The citizens of Cologne can look forward to developments in the Weilachtal. Removing the power poles is not just a technical undertaking, but also part of a larger plan to preserve and improve the landscape. As Bayernwerk AG begins its work, it remains to be hoped that these measures will be carried out in accordance with the areas worthy of protection, without affecting the beauty and diversity of the region.