Tesla’s Gigafactory Berlin-Brandenburg is moving forward with its expansion plans, albeit amid some local opposition. The company recently cleared 3,000 trees to make way for a new construction road, marking a significant step in the factory’s growth strategy.
New Construction Road
- Length: 1.86 miles (3 km)
- Location: Between L23 state road and the motorway
- Purpose: To facilitate material transport and alleviate local traffic
The State Road Authority confirmed that this road will play a crucial role in supporting the extensive construction work planned for the Freienbrink industrial site.
Overnight Operations Spark Controversy
Local reports indicate that work on the site commenced unexpectedly in the middle of the night, catching members of the ‘Stop Tesla’ initiative off guard. Activists described a rapid mobilization of resources:
- Fencing off the assembly area
- Setting up floodlights
- Deploying construction machinery
- Immediate tree clearing
The timing and scale of the operation led some initiative members to perceive it as provocative, especially given its proximity to their camp.
Security Measures
Brandenburg police were deployed to:
- Secure the construction site
- Ensure bystander safety
- Prevent potential “event-related crimes” against the approved work
Deutsche Bahn’s Stance
Michael Klein, a representative from Deutsche Bahn, emphasized that the nighttime start was not intended as a provocation. Instead, it was driven by the urgency to commence work as soon as possible.
Looking Ahead
As Tesla continues to expand its presence in Brandenburg, the company will likely face ongoing challenges in balancing its growth objectives with local environmental and community concerns. The construction of this new road represents just one step in what promises to be a complex and closely watched development process.
