Letter to the Editor, GMR Gruyère (mfs 5/2019)

There are certainly understandable reasons for opposing a model airfield within a municipality’s boundaries. However, it is absurd and incomprehensible when the agricultural zone is cited as the main argument in this context. Where, if not over agricultural land, should model aircraft flying take place? Over residential areas? In airport zones? Over lakes and forests? Over nature reserves? Outdoor sports—and this includes our model aviation—simply take place outdoors, in nature, and for the most part within agricultural zones. Just think of horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, shooting sports, hornussen, fishing, rowing, sailing, dog sports, canoeing, rock climbing, and all types of skiing. It goes without saying that a takeoff and landing area for model airplanes must, by definition, also be located in agricultural zones.

Clubs are an important pillar of our society. They bring young and old together and offer many people a sense of purpose and stability in life. They give young people the opportunity to learn from their elders, to motivate one another, and—last but not least—to gain leadership experience by serving on the board. Anyone who disputes this should take a look at a club’s bylaws!

Clubhouses are essential for many clubs—from the rehearsal space for the yodeling choir to the hunters’ cabin in the woods, to the huts with cooking and overnight accommodations operated by the many ski clubs and the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC). Clubhouses are also extremely useful at our model airfields. In most cases, a tool shed (for lawn mowers, runway rollers, party tables and benches, umbrellas, a windsock, a grill, tents for holding competitions, etc.) and a lounge are sufficient.

Is there a plausible reason why such simple structures—which can be easily dismantled at any time if the club is dissolved—cannot be located in the agricultural zone?

Clearly, the problem lies in the Spatial Planning Act (RPG), which deals in part with detailed issues regarding housing construction and agriculture but has simply overlooked other human needs, such as outdoor sports and the clubhouses that support them. Unfortunately, with the help of nitpicking lawyers, it is all too often possible to corner small interest groups.

Ruedi Schmid