In Nuttlar, a new car dealership is under construction, but not without controversy. Located on Briloner Straße, on the site of the former Texaco petrol station, the project has raised serious concerns among local residents since its inception in September 2024.
Residents have voiced allegations ranging from illegal deforestation to potential environmental violations, and even construction without the necessary permits. The building contractor, a former car dealer from Dortmund, has been operating a dealership in Meschede for over three years and is now facing significant scrutiny over his practices.
One of the most pressing issues is the alleged illegal logging of a fir forest, which the contractor claims was necessary to create parking spaces for his vehicles. In February 2025, he had the forest cleared, but local residents argue that this was done without proper authorization. Johannes Pape from the Landesbetrieb Wald und Holz NRW has confirmed that an investigation is ongoing regarding this unauthorized forest conversion. He stated, "It is a pending procedure, in which the forestry office is involved concerning the previously unauthorized forest conversion." This statement highlights the seriousness of the allegations against the contractor.
The contractor, however, defends his actions, asserting that he cut down the fir trees by the end of February 2025, adhering to the designated tree-felling period. He claims the trees were infested with bark beetles and were no longer viable. "I was unaware that I needed a special permit for the small forest," he remarked, emphasizing his intention to comply with regulations. He added, "I am in contact with Mr. Pape from the Landesbetrieb Wald und Holz to find a solution as soon as possible. The felling of the firs was not malicious. I plan to create emergency parking spaces for some vehicles on the site, following discussions with the Hochsauerlandkreis."
Another significant concern pertains to the soil removed from the former petrol station site. Local citizens have expressed unease about the disposal of potentially contaminated soil. The Hochsauerlandkreis has involved three specialist services from the municipality of Bestwig to investigate. The press spokesperson for the Hochsauerlandkreis confirmed that the soil was likely brought to the site without the necessary permits and prior analysis. "The soil is presumed to have been brought there without permission and prior analysis," he stated, indicating that the contractor may face further scrutiny.
The contractor maintains that when he purchased the property, he received written confirmation from the seller stating that no tanks remained buried in the ground and that soil samples had been tested. "The samples were clean; otherwise, I would not have purchased the property from H. Düring. There is an environmental assessment; the city had no objections. This is part of the review process," he asserted.
Complicating matters further is the lack of a building permit for the proposed parking area. The Hochsauerlandkreis has stated that there is only an application for a preliminary decision regarding the construction of open parking spaces, and no formal building application has been submitted. The Lower Building Authority has ordered an immediate halt to construction activities on the site, citing the absence of a building permit. The spokesperson for the authority noted, "There is no building application present, only an application for a preliminary decision, which has yet to be decided. Therefore, there is no building permit in place." This has led to a construction stop being imposed on the site, with the last inspection occurring on March 31, 2025, which revealed no violations.
In a turn of events, the contractor is also facing allegations of electricity theft from a family that rented a house belonging to him. This family moved in on January 15, 2025, but vacated the property by March 31, 2025, following disputes with the landlord. They reported to the Sauerlandkurier that the construction site was powered by stolen electricity from their garden shed. The Hochsauerlandkreis police have confirmed that an investigation into the contractor for "withdrawal of electrical energy" is underway.
In response to these allegations, the contractor has firmly denied any wrongdoing. He stated, "A scoundrel thinks ill of others. Is the former tenant maliciously trying to retaliate after the termination of the lease? The claim of power theft lacks any foundation and is simply being thrown around." This statement reflects his frustration with the accusations and his desire to clear his name.
As the situation unfolds, the contractor remains hopeful. He expressed his commitment to maintaining a good relationship with the community and the authorities, stating, "There is close contact with the Hochsauerlandkreis and all parties involved. The authorities have been and continue to be informed and consulted. The ongoing procedure will be handled correctly." He aims to open his car dealership by June 30, 2025, and is looking forward to welcoming customers. "We are excited to have many guests," he concluded.
The outcome of the investigations into the allegations against the contractor remains to be seen, but it is clear that the community is watching closely as this story develops.
