A39 motorway expansion stalled again by fresh BUND legal challenge

The expansion of the A39 motorway between Wolfsburg and Lüneburg remains on hold. The project aims to link major cities like Lüneburg, Wolfsburg, Helmstedt, Wolfenbüttel, Braunschweig, and Salzgitter before joining the A7. Legal challenges have delayed progress for years. In 2019, the German Environmental Aid (BUND) filed a lawsuit against the project. The Federal Administrative Court in Leipzig initially ruled in BUND’s favour, prompting an amendment and supplementary procedure in December 2020.

The southern section, running from Wolfsburg to Ehra in northern Gifhorn district, currently has a planning approval decision that cannot be enforced. A new service area, Tappenbecker Moor, is planned between the Weyhausen interchange and the proposed Ehra exit.

BUND filed another lawsuit in 2024, which is still ongoing. An oral hearing is set for June 23, with a ruling expected on Tuesday. This decision may determine whether construction in the Wolfsburg and Gifhorn sections can finally begin. The court’s upcoming ruling could resolve the long-standing legal uncertainty. If approved, work on the southern segment might resume. The A39’s completion would then connect key regions and improve transport links.