Münster, 31 January 2025 – Tree-lined avenues are important and, sadly, all too rare oases in our city. They offer places to relax, are good for the urban climate and are oases of biodiversity in Münster. All the worse, then, when politicians face the decision of having such an avenue cleared. Even though it is very hard for us, we see the necessity of the clearing along Prozessionsweg as part of the planned expansion. This is because expanding the canal supports the sustainable shift of transport from road to water and reduces CO2 emissions.
Background:
- The expansion of the canal was decided more than a decade ago and is essential for strengthening shipping and relieving the pressure on the roads.
- Modernising the waterway secures the region's competitiveness in the long term and contributes to its economic development.
- A reforestation programme is being implemented to offset the environmental impact.
- The avenue along Prozessionsweg will be preserved as far as possible, and tree felling was reviewed for alternatives and kept to a minimum.
Volt regrets the clearing, but continues to support the expansion of the waterways in order to ensure a more environmentally friendly transport alternative.
“We share residents' concerns and have looked closely at the ecological and infrastructural aspects. The clearing is a necessary step to advance the modernisation and expansion of the canal while at the same time finding sustainable solutions for the future of our city,” says councillor Martin Grewer, environmental and transport policy spokesperson for the Volt council group.
The council group will continue to monitor the process critically and push for sustainable solutions.
