In a meeting called at short notice, the BDG, the municipality of Saanen, the cantonal police and the district governor agreed on the creation of an emergency car park between Lätzgüetli, winter hiking trails and the Romantik Hotel Hornberg as a short-term solution.

However, many did not approve of this car park. In addition to complaints from some residents about blocked accesses during the holidays and the unfortunate choice of the site immediately adjacent to the children’s ski area, the legality of this use of the land was questioned.

In this area, the building regulations provide for intensive use, for example for snow sports, but not for use as parking areas. Bruno Künzi of the cantonal office for community and regional planning was able to offer a short-term emergency solution, limited to this winter, with no red tape.

Those responsible have faced accusations of lack of initiative in the past and insufficient communication. The problem had been known for some time, and projects such as a bridge to relieve the village had been considered but not pursued further in the past. With the new Saanersloch cable car the situation severely increased.

Those responsible at Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus, Bergbahnen Destination Gstaad and the municipality of Saanen have stated that they are aware of their responsibility and intend to work on a permanent parking solution this summer. The village organisation Saanenmöser will also be consulted.

Based on AvS/Jenny Sterchi