Mertzig, Luxembourg

The municipality of Mertzig is located in the heart of Luxembourg, one of twelve localities of the canton Diekirch. Mertzig has approximately 1,730 inhabitants, 28% of which belong to 24 different nationalities. The communal land is mostly used for agriculture and comprises eleven km2.

In the scope of a sustainable and holistic development concept for the municipality, various topics have been elaborated together with the citizens. The participation of the citizens does not stop with the draft of a concept, but also includes the implementation of projects. Consulting committees have supported these activities, financing came from the municipality’s budget. With the participation of the local Leader Action Group and together with other localities, more projects for the improvement of the area could be developed. Numerous experts of different special fields helped with the implementation. Citizens are kept up to date through the info flyer published by the municipality, among other communication channels.

“SICONA”, an inter communal cooperation also responsible for the hedge register and the program for the maintenance of hedges, is partner for the area environmental protection and maintenance of the landscape. A fruit market has been set up over the Internet to market the private fruit harvest. In the course of the ecological development of the municipality, the renewal of former natural pathways for the river and the natural design of the streams was an important objective. The respective design of green areas and the erection of a playground for children complement this project.

An especially interesting result of the construction design of the locality is the attractive cultural center, a place of encounter with its own solar and photovoltaic plant. A board displays information about the use of regenerative energy in order to create awareness among the populace. Numerous private households have already been updated accordingly. However, gas is the general energy source in Mertzig. During a mobility week, the populace has been informed about the use of energy and different aspects of mobility.

A number of societies and associations are part of the vivid community life. The Historic Society holds a special place in regard to maintaining the regional cultural history. In the future, the settlement history since the stone age will be documented in a museum. In addition, it is envisioned to create topical trails regarding the natural geology and regional art history.

The social services of the municipality deserve to be mentioned as well. Not only is there a home for senior citizens, but a plan has been proposed to create an area for supervised living accommodations. These facilities will have the appropriate infrastructure in terms of equipment, and also can be reached by foot from the centre of the locality. The apartments will be sold to individuals, but contracts will ensure the exclusive use for senior citizens. A day care centre with accommodation and workshops for people with special needs is also being planned.

Mertzig has an excellent concept for the development of the municipality, supported by its citizens and experts in their respective fields, a guarantee for successful development of the municipality. The numerous and varied regional cooperations are notable, as well as the consideration of ecological needs, finding its way into the natural design. Excellent projects in the cultural area and the commitment in the social segment cover other topics of the comprehensive village renewal project and must be seen as role models.

Evaluated: 2010