The vote was binding and the quorum of 55.8 percent voter turnout was reached. A citizens’ initiative had spoken out against the project but accepted the result. Mayor Benjamin Henn expressed relief and welcomed the high turnout in the referendum.
Helsing plans a campus with manufacturing, research, and development on an area of around 35 hectares. The company received a major order from the Bundeswehr for drone technology in March 2026. The municipality hopes the development will bring additional business tax revenue and around 300 jobs.
The citizens’ initiative led by Heidi Miller-Mommerskamp had raised concerns about nature and species protection as well as security risks. The municipal council had initiated the council referendum after a 16:6 vote in favor of the project, allowing the public to decide.
Source: www.sueddeutsche.de
