Sustainable Brocken: Saxony-Anhalt Boosts Tourism with Green Investments
Brockon's top shifts hands with new ownership announced
Known for its myths, legends, and stunning natural landscape, the Brocken Peak in the Harz Mountains of Saxony-Anhalt is set for a greener future. The county plans to take over the area, invest in sustainable infrastructure, and make it a must-visit destination.
The county's administration in Halberstadt recently announced the acquisition of two plots on the 1,142-meter-high Brocken. The deal, totaling 3.5 million euros, puts the Brocken Tower, Tourist Hall, weather station, and economic buildings under county control—previously owned by Harz Sparkasse and Norddeutsche Landesbank.
Thomas Balcerowski, County Administrator, hailed the move as a "historic moment" comparable to the first television tower built on the Brocken in 1936 and the mountain's opening after German reunification in 1989. This purchase, Balcerowski said, offers an opportunity to give Brocken Peak a sustainable future as a tourist beacon.
To support these plans, the county council had previously approved the construction of a multi-purpose hall. This facility will cater to conferences, concerts, theater performances, and house up to 500 visitors, boosting tourism significantly.
The county aims to make the Brocken much more attractive to tourists and locals alike, supporting the line-of-business Brocken Railway, employing around 250 people. This narrow-gauge line, operational since 1899, will benefit from increased visitors to the mountain.
Brocken Peak's unique location has historically fostered legends, attracted hikers, and, for several decades, served as a military site. Once inaccessible due to its strategic significance, the mountain has since opened to the public, drawing millions of visitors each year.
However, the region's forests have suffered from continued drought, bark beetle infestation, and fires, causing massive tree death—particularly among spruces. Environmental preservation is a key consideration in the county's plans to develop the Brocken sustainably.
Investment focus will include eco-friendly infrastructure, such as renewable energy sources, green transportation options, and environmentally friendly accommodations. Conservation efforts will emphasize preserving natural habitats and employing sustainable land-use practices. A focus on engaging local communities in sustainable tourism initiatives will also play a crucial role in ensuring long-term success.
By implementing these green strategies and promoting eco-friendly activities and cultural events, Saxony-Anhalt places the Brocken Peak on the path to becoming an environmentally responsible tourist destination. This approach will attract eco-conscious travelers while protecting and enhancing this precious natural and cultural asset for future generations.
- As part of the county's efforts to make the Brocken Peak a sustainable tourist destination, vocational training programs in eco-friendly practices and sustainable tourism initiatives will be integrated within the community policy to engage local residents.
- To cater to eco-conscious travelers and promote a green lifestyle, the multi-purpose hall on the Brocken Peak will offer vocational training sessions about sustainable living, alongside its regular events, as part of the overall green investments in the area.
