Dorfen, a city in Germany, has taken a significant step to halt the development of a construction area in the Obere Mooswiesen, located at the base of Hausmehringer Hill. This region, known for its ability to drain heavy rainwater, was set to be transformed into a densely built environment featuring three-story buildings, but the project raised alarms among local citizens who are wary of the increased flood risk, particularly in light of past flooding incidents. With support from multiple city council lists, the residents successfully voiced their opposition during an extraordinary council meeting, leading even the ruling CSU party to reconsider its support for the development.

The city had previously envisioned a different future for the Obere Mooswiesen, planning to establish a sports center that would include facilities for football, tennis, an outdoor swimming pool, and an ice rink. However, the stark memory of the damaging flood in 2013, which came from the same area, cast a shadow over these construction plans. Local residents are particularly concerned that sealing the wetlands would exacerbate the likelihood of severe rainfall impacts, which could lead to another disaster similar to what they experienced a decade ago.

This decision by Dorfen's city council reflects broader concerns about urban development in flood-prone areas. As climate change increasingly influences weather patterns and enhances the frequency and intensity of heavy rainfall, many local communities are reassessing their development strategies. The halt in construction aligns with a growing awareness of the need for sustainable planning and adequate flood management measures, as cities worldwide grapple with the implications of climate-related risks.