Saxony's largest city, Leipzig, does not want to start any new investment projects in the coming months. The reason for this is the uncertainty about how much money the city will receive from the state and federal government, the city administration announced. "No new investment measures and projects will be started until June 30, 2026," explained Leipzig's Finance Mayor Torsten Bonew (CDU). He spoke of an investment moratorium that had been imposed. Leipzig has a population of around 632,000.
"At the moment, there are many uncertainties and little clarity regarding the funding backdrop and the distribution of federal and state funds," explained Bonew. He was referring in particular to the federal government's debt-financed infrastructure package and the Saxony Fund Act. The rules for the use of funds are currently being discussed. They are actually intended to encourage more investment.
Some areas exempt from the investment freeze
The Leipzig moratorium includes new investment projects that are planned from 2025 and for which no financial commitments have yet been made. These include some construction measures, land acquisition and the granting of loans, according to the Finance Mayor.
The moratorium, which lasts several months, does not apply to new school places if required or the energy-efficient refurbishment of schools - if it makes economic sense and is carried out as part of a complex refurbishment. Money will also continue to be spent on the road safety of engineering structures such as bridges in the event of an urgent assessment, as well as on disaster control.
The district heating expansion pilot project in Südvorstadt West should continue if the necessary own contribution is financed. Economic development is available if it significantly increases the city's earnings situation. Preparations for the Olympic bid are also not covered by the moratorium.
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