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Lower Saxony Rejects Keeping Roter Sand at Sea as Landtag Weighs Petition

The state says preservation at the offshore site is unrealistic, steering efforts toward relocating the lighthouse on land.

Overview

  • The Landtag’s Petitions Committee held a hearing on the citizen initiative, with members gathering information and no immediate decision expected.
  • The Ministry for Science and Culture ruled that retention at the offshore site conflicts with conservation goals and deemed on‑site renovation unrealistic due to statics, substance loss, harsher weather stresses and high long‑term costs.
  • Officials cast doubt on a UNESCO bid, arguing the lighthouse lacks a unique qualifying value and noting Germany’s tentative list is closed with slots filled until at least 2038.
  • The Deutsche Stiftung Denkmalschutz continues planning for relocation, narrowing potential mainland sites to Fedderwardersiel and Wilhelmshaven, with a decision anticipated in the coming weeks.
  • Earlier options in Bremerhaven and Hooksiel were dropped after waterways and conservation authorities warned of confusion with active navigation aids, as the petition surpasses 5,600 signatures opposing any move.