El heredero de Porsche enfada a la ciudad de Salzburgo: quiere perforar una colina para llegar más rápido a su villa | Gente | EL PAÍS

Porsche Heir's Controversial Tunnel Project

Wolfgang Porsche, heir to the Porsche fortune, is facing significant backlash from Salzburg residents over his plans to construct a 500-meter tunnel through Kapuzinerberg hill to improve access to his villa. This project has drawn criticism due to its environmental impact and the perceived favoritism shown to Porsche by the previous administration.

Public Outcry and Protests

The project has ignited public protests, including a three-day "Porsche Tunnel Festival" attended by climate activists and local residents. Concerns revolve around environmental damage and unfair treatment compared to stalled public tunnel projects.

Key points of contention include:

• Environmental impact on a protected UNESCO World Heritage site.
• The substantial cost (estimated at €10 million) of a project solely benefiting one individual.
• The relatively low cost of the permission granted by the city council (€40,000) deemed insufficient by a subsequent independent review.
• The use of a public access path for the tunnel's access.

Political Ramifications

The controversy has influenced Salzburg's recent elections. The new mayor, Bernhard Auinger, has ordered an independent assessment of the payment for the access permission. While legally the project is feasible, the upcoming city council vote will determine the tunnel's fate.

Ongoing Debate and Uncertain Future

The debate is ongoing, with the future of the tunnel uncertain, pending the city council's vote and the mayor's position. The social democrats, along with the right-wing, seem to support Porsche's plan.