Court upholds ban on AfD events in Weilheim cinema

The Administrative Court of Munich has upheld a ban preventing the AfD from using a former cinema and a local office for events in Weilheim, Upper Bavaria. The court rejected urgent applications filed by AfD lawmakers against the restrictions imposed by the Weilheim-Schongau District Office.

The court ruled that the intended use of the spaces for political events is not covered by existing building permits, which designate the premises as retail space and a cinema. Consequently, a new building permit would be required for the proposed change in use. While the decision regarding the former Starlight Cinema is legally binding in these preliminary proceedings, the main proceedings are still pending.

The ban follows significant local opposition, including a demonstration in February where approximately 4,000 people protested against rising right-wing extremism. The District Office had previously cited concerns regarding the local traffic situation and parking requirements as reasons for denying the usage plans.