Andorra expands environmental protections through new urban and natural park plans

Andorra is implementing new measures to expand its protected territories through urban planning and natural park declarations. In Andorra la Vella, the new Parish Urban Planning Plan (POUP) will guarantee the full preservation of Parc Central. The 18,000-square-meter green space is intended to eventually transition to communal ownership, a move designed to prevent urban development from compromising the area.

Additionally, the Pessons circuit is being declared a communal natural park in Encamp. This project covers 528 hectares and is expected to increase the country's total protected surface area to nearly 32%. The area is a significant high-mountain natural complex featuring over 25 ponds and habitats for species such as the white ptarmigan, chamois, and Pyrenean brook newt. The initiative aims to strengthen ecological connections and preserve biodiversity while balancing conservation with local economic activities like livestock farming and tourism.