The residents of Dukla in Újezdeček, Teplice, are staunchly opposing the idea of selling their homes as a potential solution to the issues arising from a planned lithium processing plant. Geomet, the company spearheading the investment, has outlined plans to construct the plant in close proximity to the residents’ homes.

Locals view the entire lithium mining and processing project as nonsensical, expressing strong hope that the scheme will be abandoned before considerations such as buying their homes come into play. The proposed lithium mining in Cínovec, set to commence eight kilometers away by 2028, will involve transporting raw materials via conveyor belts over tree crowns to Újezdeček, where a large plant for processing mined ore is slated for construction. However, residents are concerned about the potential negative impacts on their quality of life and the surrounding landscape.

Martin Pohlodek, Geomet’s director, acknowledged potential negative impacts and mentioned having a plan B in case of complications. One of the potential solutions being considered is the buyout of homes.

The unexpected proposal has taken the locals by surprise, as well as the mayors of municipalities directly affected by the project. Tomáš Sváda, mayor of Košťany, expressed disbelief at the news, highlighting that they learned about the variant from the media without any prior discussions.

Geomet’s suggestion to buy houses is met with strong resistance from the locals. Ladislav Branda, chairman of the settlement committee, emphasized that they are not considering selling their homes and are determined to fight against the construction of the processing plant in their area. If the project proceeds, it should only do so under conditions that align with the community’s demands, ensuring that normal living conditions are maintained.

Article by Prague Forum