Follonica civic groups propose new province to protect local services

Local civic lists in Follonica, including ‘In Movimento per Follonica’ and ‘Follonica nel Cuore’, have proposed the creation of a new province comprising Follonica, Piombino, Val di Cornia, and the Colline Metallifere area.

The proposal stems from concerns regarding the gradual reduction of local healthcare services by the Tuscany Region. Proponents argue that the loss of surgical departments in areas like Massa Marittima in favor of Grosseto is contributing to a ‘vicious cycle’ of depopulation. They suggest that as services are withdrawn, residents move toward larger centers, which in turn leads to further service cuts.

Advocates claim that the current administrative structure favors provincial capitals like Grosseto and Livorno at the expense of the coastal and metalliferous hill territories. They argue that the proposed new administrative axis would better manage the strategic interests of the Follonica Gulf and mitigate long-term environmental risks, such as increased fires and landslides, caused by the abandonment of inland areas.