Local opposition continues to mount against Tesla’s plans to expand its factory grounds in Grünheide, Germany. The mayor, Arne Christiani, revealed that several objections had been lodged by various groups and residents as the deadline for submissions closed on December 22, 2023.
One prominent critic is the Brandenburg Association for Nature and Landscape, particularly the Citizen Initiative against Tesla. They’re up in arms, especially about the proposed forest clearances, citing concerns about the loss of vital fresh air zones, according to a statement obtained by the German Press Agency.
Tesla’s proposal includes setting up its own railway station for shipping, warehouses, and even a daycare center on an adjacent plot due to the current site’s limitations. The local council greenlit the initiation of a new development plan in December 2022, but more forest areas need clearing for this expansion to happen.
However, the final nod for the development plan rests with the municipal council, and the community plans to gather public opinion next year before making any decisions.
This isn’t the first time protests have erupted against Tesla’s expansion in Grünheide. Back in September 2023, the local citizen initiative strongly opposed the deforestation required for the proposed freight station.
Over the years, various groups have criticized different aspects of Tesla’s projects in this location, with concerns often centering on the region’s groundwater supply, notably voiced by the Strausberg-Erkner Water Association. Despite these concerns, Tesla has consistently pushed back, refuting the worries of environmentalists.
