Citizens of Bulgaria`s Razlog and Bansko Protest Against Natura 2000

Sofia echo, 8th January 2007

Citizens of Razlog and Bansko will block the road from Simitli to Gotse Delchev in a protest against the introduction of Natura 2000 ecological network.

Nearly 11 000 people from Razlog and 4000 people from Bansko signed a petition against Natura 2000, Focus news agency reported.

People protested against the manner in which officials handled the inclusion of terrains in the European ecological network.

Razlog is going to host a Natura 2000 meeting to which a number of officials have been invited. The President, Water and Environment Minister and Parliament members all received invitations.

In case the invited officials fail appearing, the citizens of the two towns will start protesting. Only an MP from the United Democratic Forces (UtDF) has confirmed participation so far.

Natura 2000 introduction caused controversy in Bulgaria as environmentalists demanded maximum inclusion, while businesses supported the smallest percentage of terrains to become part of the network. Investors will experience some construction restrictions, once terrains become part of Natura 2000.

A final list of the territories to be included in the Network has not been approved yet. The decision is expected by the end of January.




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