Harz (Landkreis Goslar)

The Landkreis Harz (Goslar), often shortened to Landkreis Harz within the Goslar district, is a proposed administrative division under discussion in Lower Saxony, Germany. This entity would combine parts of the current Landkreis Goslar situated within the Harz mountain range with other smaller administrative units. The creation of such a district is motivated by several factors, including:

• Regional Identity: An attempt to strengthen the regional identity of the Harz region within Lower Saxony. The Harz mountains have a distinct cultural and geographical identity that transcends current administrative boundaries.

• Economic Development: Streamlining economic development initiatives by creating a more cohesive administrative unit focused on the Harz region. This could facilitate tourism, forestry, and other industries specific to the area.

• Administrative Efficiency: Potentially improving administrative efficiency by reducing duplication of services and creating a single point of contact for residents and businesses within the defined Harz region.

• Coordination of Environmental Policies: Facilitating the coordination of environmental policies related to the Harz National Park and the broader ecosystem.

The realization of the Landkreis Harz (Goslar) is dependent on political decisions and agreement among the affected municipalities and the state government of Lower Saxony. Public opinion and the feasibility of merging administrative structures are also key considerations. Currently, discussions and planning are ongoing to assess the potential benefits and challenges associated with creating this new district. The "Goslar" designation is added to distinguish it from the existing Landkreis Harz located in Saxony-Anhalt.