Under monument protection?

Former chapel on greenfield site threatened with demolition

The Marienheim must be demolished: Residents now want to preserve at least the chapel.

(Bild: Marienheim)

Monument protection versus environmental protection: this duel is currently crystallizing around a former chapel in the Vienna Woods. Because the secularized place of worship has to be demolished. It stands on a greenfield site following an exchange of dedication.

Gablitz is a tranquil community on the outskirts of the city. Located in the so-called green ring around Vienna, there is a building freeze here. In order for a new center to be built in the town center, including space for an intergenerational house, a land swap was necessary. It was a good thing that the residents in need of care at the Marienheim, which is run by the neighboring St. Barbara Congregation, were supposed to move from the dilapidated building to the new house in the center anyway.

Mandatory demolition prohibited for the time being
For this reason, the area on Klosterweg was returned to grassland, with the condition that the house be demolished as soon as possible after the relocation. Two years ago, there was fierce resistance to this - the "Krone" reported. And the chapel, which has been "desecrated" for a good week now, is still at the center of the debate.

Mayor Michael Cech confirms that the procedure for the protection of the profaned church has been extended again. The chapel and connecting passageway must remain standing until the process is completed. Cech: "And this despite the fact that it would have to be demolished in accordance with the zoning regulations!" Incidentally, the municipality itself is not a party to the proceedings.