Objection rejected: How will Airbus get into Serengeti Park?
The planned heavy load transport of a decommissioned Bundeswehr aircraft to the Serengeti Park in the Südheide remains prohibited. The park's objection to the exemption from nature conservation law for the transport was rejected, the Hanover region announced on Tuesday. This means that the fuselage of the Airbus A310 aircraft may not be transported from Hanover Airport in Langenhagen through a nature reserve to the park. The planned route runs for around 1.8 kilometers through the protected area, where it is reportedly forbidden to damage trees all year round.
The Serengeti Park had purchased the Bundeswehr Airbus A310 "Kurt Schumacher" to turn the decommissioned aircraft into a restaurant. The aircraft had most recently transported local Afghan forces and relatives to Hanover. It was originally planned to transport the fuselage over the approximately 50-kilometre route from the airport to Hodenhagen in summer 2022. The dismantled wings and tailplane were brought to the park in mid-October.
According to the region, the park would either have to prove that the transport would not cause any damage in order to obtain approval - or the Hannover Region would have to grant an exemption from the ban on damage. However, damaged trees cannot be ruled out even if branches are tied up: "Country roads are usually cut free for motor traffic up to a height of 4.5 meters," said Jens Palandt, head of the Hannover Region's environmental department. "The fuselage of the aircraft would have a height of 6.8 meters during transport."
In the objection procedure, it was once again intensively examined whether there was a legal basis for an exemption in connection with pruning the trees. There was "no room for discretion" and aircraft transportation in the area was not compatible with the applicable laws, said Palandt. According to earlier information, over 200 trees are to be affected. However, the region would be "happy" to advise on alternative proposals. An appeal against the decision can be lodged with the Hanover Administrative Court within one month.
Despite the rejection of their objection, Serengeti Park could explore alternative leisure time activities during their nature conservation disputes with municipalities, avoiding any potential traffic disruptions caused by the Airbus transport. Meanwhile, municipalities should consider promoting nature conservation efforts to reduce traffic in sensitive areas, ensuring the preservation of the environment for future generations.
Source: www.dpa.com
