Municipality in Flachgau challenges golf course pumping trial over drinking water concerns

The background to the decision is the heatwave that has persisted for weeks, which has significantly increased water demand in many Austrian municipalities. In several regions, including the Flachgau, drinking water supply has recently been strained. The municipality sees additional risks to supply security from the planned pumping trial.

Background: Ongoing heat and water scarcity

The Gut Altentann golf course, which is managed by an external operating company, requires considerable quantities of groundwater for the maintenance of its green spaces. A pumping trial generally serves to test the long-term availability and quality of the water resource before a water law permit is issued.

The Flachgau district administration had previously assessed the application for the pumping trial positively. With the municipality's objection, the final decision is now referred to the Salzburg Regional Administrative Court, which must review the case legally. According to Köllersberger, no concrete date for a hearing has yet been set.

Impacts in other federal states

Parallel to the procedure in Salzburg, the heatwave is also occupying other federal states. In Styria, for example in the municipality of Hinterstoder, measures are also being discussed to secure local drinking water supply. Federal politicians such as Simone Schmiedtbauer had pointed out in recent days the urgency of a supra-regional strategy.

Temperatures across large parts of Austria have recently been significantly above the seasonal average. Meteorologists warn that the heat period could continue. This increases the pressure on municipalities to make provisions for a secure drinking water supply.

Municipality's reaction and outlook

The municipality emphasizes that it does not fundamentally question the golf course as an economic factor. The objection is directed solely against the current pumping trial at a time when water reserves are already scarce. The aim is a decision on a sound legal and technical basis, it was stated.

How the Salzburg Regional Administrative Court ultimately assesses the case remains open. Observers expect the court to take both water management and municipal law aspects into account. Until a decision is made, the pumping trial may not be carried out, provided the court does not assess suspensive effect differently.