Further safety measures are to begin in the coming weeks on the Störmthal Canal in Leipzig's Neuseenland region, which has been closed for years. As Bernd Sablotny, spokesman for the management of the mining redeveloper LMBV, announced in Markkleeberg, the work follows an order from the Saxon Mining Authority, which is expected shortly. The aim is to avoid further erosion processes and ensure the safety of the canal for the coming years.
Canal and lock closed for four years
The 850-metre-long canal and lock have been closed since March 2021 after cracks were discovered in the embankment. It runs across landfill sites and connects Lake Störmthal and Lake Markkleeberg - two flooded former opencast lignite mines. The closure was a major setback for tourism businesses in the region.
An expert report had identified several causes for the damage. Among other things, the groundwater level developed differently than predicted. In addition, the structure had not settled as planned.
