Chancellor Candidates Spar Over Templehofer Feld Development Amidst Volksentscheid
In a heated debate among chancellor candidates, Friedrich Merz (CDU) and Olaf Scholz (SPD) expressed their support for developing the Tempelhofer Feld, despite its rejection in a 2014 public referendum.
Merz Advocates for Development
Merz acknowledged the negative outcome of the referendum, but maintained that political will should prevail over local opposition. "There was a public vote, and the development of this area was rejected," Merz stated. "However, if citizens refuse, then politicians must be prepared to say, ‘We will now designate this as building land and begin construction,’ even against the neighborhood’s wishes."
Scholz Echoes Support
Chancellor Olaf Scholz echoed Merz’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for a "change in mindset" to facilitate the construction of more housing. "We must be able to designate land for residential purposes wherever housing is needed," Scholz said. "We cannot advocate for more housing while simultaneously opposing its construction in our own neighborhoods."
Scholz’s ‘Moral Appeal’
Scholz stressed that this was not a criticism of citizens but rather a "moral appeal" to reconcile the desire for more housing with the willingness to accommodate its construction. "We cannot advocate for more housing if we are not willing to allow it to be built somewhere," he said.
Opposition from Local SPD
However, the SPD branch in Tempelhof-Schöneberg expressed strong opposition to the proposed development. "The Chancellor is correct in stating that we need more land for social housing," said Bundestag candidate and deputy SPD state leader Sinem Tasan-Funke. "However, there was a clear vote on Tempelhofer Feld: it should remain undeveloped. This decision must be respected until the people of Berlin decide otherwise. It is inappropriate for politicians to override this choice."
Background: Tempelhofer Feld Referendum
The Tempelhofer Feld, a former airfield with expansive runways, was the subject of a 2014 referendum in which over 700,000 Berliners voted against its development. The current black-red coalition government has nevertheless expressed an intention to reconsider the possibility of partial development.
Significance of the Debate
The debate highlights the complexities of addressing the housing crisis in major cities, where the need for new housing units often collides with local opposition to development. The outcome of this specific case could have implications for future decisions regarding the allocation of land for housing projects.
Additional Considerations
- The debate raises questions about the balance between democratic decision-making through public referendums and the authority of elected officials to prioritize the broader public interest.
- The environmental impact of development on the Tempelhofer Feld is another significant factor to consider.
- The potential impact on affordable housing availability and gentrification in the surrounding neighborhoods is also a concern that requires careful consideration.
