Expert opinion drawn up

End of secondary residences still on hold

For 18 percent of the approximately 13,000 inhabitants, Gmunden is only a second home

(Bild: NEOS Gmunden)

For a year now, there has been a valid municipal council resolution in Gmunden to restrict second homes. The VP voted against it and can be pleased about a first partial success. The state commissioned an expert opinion, which takes a very critical view of the reserved area. The opposition is angry. 

Gmunden is the only municipality on Lake Traunsee that is not yet a reserved area. This means that the registration of vacation or vacation residences is relatively straightforward and there is no need for an exceptional reason. The proportion of second homes is therefore correspondingly high at almost 18 percent.

Four parties in favor of reserved area
Unfortunately for the ÖVP, led by Mayor Stefan Krapf, there has also been a majority in favor of a reserved area in the municipal council for almost a year. The SP, FP, Greens and Neos voted in favor, but are now annoyed by the sluggish implementation. The state had it checked whether Gmunden would be the first district capital to be allowed to restrict second homes. An expert opinion was commissioned. The negative result is now available. It has caused disillusionment among red, blue, green and pink.

Confidentiality agreed
As confidentiality has been agreed and a confidentiality agreement signed, the four parties are only allowed to comment on the result. "A political majority is negated. I am convinced that the reserved area is one instrument among many to make Gmunden more affordable in terms of housing," emphasize Neos city councillor Philipp Wiatschka and SP politician Dominik Gessert. 
Not a magic bullet
FP parliamentary group leader Dina Fritz adds: "The reserved area is not a magic bullet for affordable housing, but it is a step in the right direction."