site.btaVarna Considers Master Plan Changes to Regulate Construction

Varna Municipality is preparing changes to its master development plan and other measures to regulate construction, Mayor Blagomir Kotsev said at a forum held as part of the Annual Meeting of the National Association of the Municipalities in the Republic of Bulgaria here on Monday.

He noted that inspections of building permits and legal proceedings against illegal structures in the Baba Alino area are ongoing, with the city consulting experts, lawyers and professional organizations on possible measures, including changes to the master plan. No final decision has been made on whether to impose a construction moratorium or introduce alternative regulations, the mayor pointed out.

Kotsev warned that strong investment interest in some areas is outpacing infrastructure development, leaving shortages of roads, sewage systems, kindergartens and schools. He welcomed a national review of building permits issued in Varna over the past four years, saying the municipality had previously requested a comprehensive inspection. Authorities are also pursuing cases involving around 90–100 illegal structures in Baba Alino. The process is expected to continue in the coming months, while the municipality operates with a reduced staff following dismissals and ongoing personnel changes linked to suspected inaction.

Meanwhile, construction near a road collapse in the Asparuhovo district remains suspended. The municipality and national authorities are investigating the relevant permits. A report by Geozashtita has been completed and will be submitted to the Council of Ministers’ disaster and emergency commission. Any extension of the state of emergency falls under the regional governor’s authority. Kotsev said he hopes the investigations will clarify the circumstances surrounding the permits and help ensure construction in Varna complies with the law.