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Construction work in Opatija: holidaymakers flee noise nightmare!
In Opatija, Croatia, construction work is frustrating holidaymakers despite the ban. The city is calling for urgent changes to the law to combat it.
Construction work in Opatija: holidaymakers flee noise nightmare!
In the beautiful coastal town of Opatija, Croatia, summer vacation is increasingly turning into a real noise nightmare. Despite a fixed construction ban that applies from June 1st to October 1st, construction work continues, angering holidaymakers and hoteliers alike. Again Giessener Anzeiger reports that the investor “Rivas Hotels and Resorts doo” is ignoring the legal regulations and is causing grumpy faces in the city.
The situation is anything but rosy – many holidaymakers are considering leaving Opatija. The once popular beaches and the majestic cityscape are besieged by noise and dust, which is seriously affecting tourism. The city administration also feels powerless: its means of taking action against the construction work are limited, as only small fines can be imposed. During four inspections carried out, the contractor was found to have failed to comply with the regulations, unfortunately with no significant consequences for the perpetrators.
The impact on the community
Residents are also concerned about increasing overdevelopment, which is leading to the destruction of previously popular green spaces that were valued by both locals and tourists. Nikola Turina, a resident, reported that a road had been relocated through his neighborhood, making access to his home difficult. How Total Croatia News reported in detail, a total of 250 additional requests from investors were approved in 2021 due to a change in spatial planning documentation. In particular, there is a lack of a clear legal basis and sufficient inspections, which plays into the hands of investors.
In this context, the city parliament is appealing to the state government to change the legal framework in order to allow local governments more freedom of action when dealing with construction projects. Mayor Fernando Kirigin announced that a new zoning plan has been developed to better protect certain areas from rampant construction. Citizens are hoping for measures that will steer future construction in a more environmentally friendly direction.
Future prospects and legal regulations
The building regulations in Croatia as stated Terra Dalmatica are designed to ensure safety, quality and environmental protection. In order to build in Croatia, a valid building permit is required. This is issued by the city or municipality, but must meet strict regulations.
The pressure for a rapid improvement in the situation is increasing. Many tourists who have returned to Opatija in the past can expect refunds if they were not informed of possible disruptions. In addition, a price increase for holidaymakers in Croatia is expected from July. The uncertainties surrounding construction development and the associated noise disturbances could endanger not only local tourism, but also the economic stability of the region.