OK for unauthorised construction in archaeological sites

At present, the environment ministry has only exempted forests from the process of the "legalization" of illegal buildings.

Last-minute changes exempt illegal constructions found in archaeological sites and areas of outstanding natural beauty while another order "settles" those found in protected areas, thus causing the wrath of environmental groups.

The trick that the ministry uses to placate market reactions is that will legalize illegal buildings in sensitive areas, against which there was no prohibition at the time of construction.

A similar provision in paragraph 3 of Article 23, which encourages unauthorised construction in streams, coastal zones and protected areas, was added during the passing of the bill, causing reactions from environmental organizations.

This even provides for the "legalization" of buildings located within these areas provided that no construction was prohibited during the time of project execution.

As members of environmental organizations stress, this might prohibit legalization in protection zones, but only if there is total prohibition of construction in the area and without taking into account building rates or any other special arrangements.

"But such a complete ban occurs only in a very small percentage of the National System of Protected Areas", say members of the organizations.

The bill for unauthorised construction is now a state law and will be published in the government gazette within the month. The explanatory circulars that will customize the measures for collecting the fines are expected to be sent to urban planning offices within the next few days.