Berlin court halts major housing project to protect endangered wildlife
A major housing development in Berlin's Ilse Kiez district has been halted by the Administrative Court over concerns for protected wildlife. The ruling blocks site clearance for the project, which was set to include 237 apartments, a daycare centre, and commercial spaces. The decision follows a legal challenge by a local conservation group.
The court found that the State of Berlin failed to properly assess the impact of the development on house sparrows and common pipistrelle bats. These species rely on the area's green spaces, which the project threatened to remove. Despite this, the Senate Department had authorized HOWOGE, the project's developer, to clear vegetation by February 2026.
The court declared the nature conservation exemption permit likely unlawful, rejecting HOWOGE's urgent request to proceed. The ruling adds to years of opposition, with critics arguing since 2017 that the plans would destroy mature trees and community areas. Originally scheduled to begin construction in 2025, the project now faces further delays.
HOWOGE can still appeal the decision before the Berlin-Brandenburg Higher Administrative Court. However, the current ruling leaves the future of the eleven planned buildings uncertain.
The court's decision means no immediate clearance work can take place, protecting the habitats of sparrows and bats for now. The case highlights ongoing tensions between urban development and environmental conservation in Berlin. Any further steps will depend on the outcome of a potential appeal.
