The Napoleonwald in the west of Vienna is one of the capital’s last remaining natural gems and has been a natural monument since 1941. This urban oasis has always been hugely popular with young and old alike and is regarded locally as the ‘green lung’ of Hietzing. After all, the Napoleonwald is not only a local recreation area but also provides a natural refuge for native wildlife.
Despite its great importance for both people and animals, the Viennese city government is evidently unconcerned about its preservation. An area protected as a natural monument is being ruthlessly opened up for development. A citizens’ initiative and Ombudsman Christoph Luisser have since been fighting side by side against this reprehensible property development project.
For Luisser, one thing is clear: “Nature conservation is a matter for the federal states. By granting this planning permission, the Vienna City Council is failing to take its own nature conservation laws seriously.”
Ombudsman’s investigation confirms misconduct
Ombudsman Christoph Luisser has no intention of letting the matter rest; he has launched an investigation into this case and has since established that a breach of regulations has occurred. Despite its protected status, part of the Napoleonwald has been rezoned from grassland to building land, and the authorities have given the go-ahead for a large-scale property development.
“When it comes to building and concreting over land, nature conservation and climate protection suddenly cease to play any role in the City of Vienna. In summary, one can say that in practice, nothing remains of the much-vaunted sustainability,” said Ombudsman Luisser.
“I stand behind the courageous citizens who are rallying to protect the Napoleon Forest,” added the Ombudsman.
