Italian towns Ceriale and Cerro Maggiore push back against new infrastructure projects

In the coastal town of Ceriale, the municipal opposition group “Ceriale Viva” has filed a motion demanding a debate on the planned relocation of the railway line upstream and the consequent closure of the town’s station. The councillors warn that the project could "damage the mobility of residents, commuters, students, the elderly and tourists" and threaten local tourism, the economy and groundwater resources, while imposing high maintenance costs on the municipality.

In the northern municipality of Cerro Maggiore, opposition parties have protested a proposal to install a data‑center hub on the former Giussani (ex‑Ikea) site. They argue the plan was rushed, could cause "environmental criticalities, both from pollution and energy consumption" and would prioritize private interests over community needs. The opposition abstained from the council vote, calling for a broader public discussion before any decision is taken.