KPÖ calls for levy on vacant commercial properties in Salzburg

The KPÖ is calling for a levy on unused commercial properties after more than 280 commercial spaces in Salzburg were listed as vacant on an online platform, ORF reported. The listings are voluntary, and no official survey has been carried out.

KPÖ parliamentary group leader Natalie Hangöbl said a vacancy levy could help bring spaces, offices and halls back into use, prevent speculation and generate revenue for municipalities.

The proposal has sparked disagreement in Salzburg state politics. Martin Zauner, the state councillor responsible for spatial planning and a member of the FPÖ, rejected the idea of a new levy or tax on businesses. He said incentives, simpler procedures and faster approvals would be more appropriate.

Several large commercial properties in Salzburg have remained unused for extended periods. The former Cineplexx cinema building at Salzburg Central Station has been vacant for six years. The STRABAG Group plans to build an 82-room hostel there, but the start of construction has not been decided.

The former Kika building in Eugendorf, in the Flachgau region, has been empty for more than a year. Discussions about possible future uses are already under way.

All political parties agree that concepts and incentives are needed to prevent commercial spaces from remaining unused permanently. However, the proposal for a vacancy levy does not currently have a majority in the Salzburg state parliament.