Erkelenz (dpa / lnw) – An alliance that is planning a large demonstration in the occupied lignite village of Lützerath hopes that the settlement will be preserved at the last minute. “I think the protest against a despondent and far too unambitious climate policy is growing in Lützerath like nowhere else,” said Christoph Bautz from the campaign organization Campact on Friday. “The broadest part of society” will be on its feet – especially during the planned demonstration, which is scheduled to take place on January 14th. There will also be pressure on the state government. That’s why one remains optimistic that the protests could get Lützerath, said Bautz. Lützerath is “the new hotspot of the climate movement”.
Lützerath near Erkelenz in the Heinsberg district is to be dredged for coal extraction. Buildings and land already belong to the energy company RWE. “The use of the former settlement this winter is necessary to ensure a secure supply of the power plants in the midst of the energy crisis,” emphasizes RWE.
However, resistance has been formed against the dismantling. Activists who want to fight for the place live in the houses whose former residents have moved away. The initiative “Lützerath Lives!” called on Friday the number of around 300 activists who are now in the hamlet. The police have been preparing for a possible evacuation for days.
An alliance that includes Greenpeace, Campact and Fridays for Future, says it expects thousands of participants at a planned demonstration on January 14 near Lützerath. It should also take place if an eviction should have already begun. According to the information, agreements with the police are still ongoing.
