Cabinet Discusses Master Plan for Southwest Saxony with Local Officials

The Southwest Saxony Master Plan for structural change in the region is taking shape. At an off-site cabinet meeting at Rochlitz Castle, the Saxon government discussed next steps with local politicians. It is important to all mayors in the state that Southwest Saxony, as the industrial heart of the Free State, navigates the transformation successfully, said Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer (CDU) afterward. The transformation of knowledge is key. The Southwest Saxony region is blessed with many scientific institutions. 

The master plan for the Chemnitz/Southwest Saxony region is a joint strategic concept developed by the districts of Zwickau, Central Saxony, the Erzgebirge District, the Vogtland District, and the city of Chemnitz to actively shape the region’s profound structural transformation. The Free State of Saxony intends to allocate 100 million euros annually from the federal government’s special fund for this purpose.

Master Plan on Schedule

At the cabinet meeting, stakeholders were assured that they are on the right track. “We are currently well on schedule,” said District Administrator Sven Krüger (Mittelsachsen District). Initial project ideas have been submitted. According to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development, companies, municipalities, research institutions, associations, and other stakeholders can submit their ideas via a “project profile” on the master plan’s website until the end of August 2026. The proposals will then be evaluated. A master plan linking strategic goals with concrete projects is expected to be available by the end of the year.

Stakeholders should be better connected

However, there is also a recognized need for adjustment. During the expert dialogues held so far, it has become apparent that numerous initiatives have been running parallel to one another. “The goal of the master plan is therefore to better connect stakeholders and existing expertise, develop joint initiatives, and launch projects with supraregional impact,” the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development announced.

“The Southwest Saxony region is on a sound and clearly structured path, made possible by a strong industrial base, outstanding skilled workers, and a robust scientific landscape,” assessed Infrastructure Minister Regina Kraushaar (CDU). She expects the region to emerge from this transformation stronger than before. “Because the best ideas for addressing the transformation in the automotive and supplier industries arise where the changes are immediately felt: in companies, municipalities, research institutions, and among the local people.”

Kretschmer on horseback

The Saxon cabinet also meets regularly outside of Dresden. Head of government Michael Kretschmer usually combines these meetings with early-morning sporting activities. This time, he went horseback riding with District Administrator Krüger.