# Novi Sad Danube riverfront development controversy > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/novi-sad-danube-riverfront-development-controversy > Updated: 2026-08-12T09:34:42.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2. The proposed transformation of a Danube riverbank segment in Novi Sad into a residential and commercial district, promoted by developer Galens, has faced significant opposition. Critics have raised concerns regarding environmental impact, flood risks, and the loss of protected natural areas, noting that protests began as early as 2022 following the removal of trees. In response to the ongoing controversy, the civic platform ‘100% Sad.’ has submitted an initiative to the Novi Sad City Administration to seek a binding local referendum. This move aims to allow citizens to decide whether the ‘Novi Sad na vodi’ (Novi Sad on Water) General Regulation Plan should remain in effect. If the City Assembly verifies the proposal, organizers must collect signatures from 10% of the city’s voters. While opponents argue the plan improperly converts recreational space into residential zones, some local officials have defended the project by comparing it to historical urban expansions in the region. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-12: Novi Sad civic platform seeks referendum on waterfront project The ‘100% Sad.’ platform has requested a local referendum in Novi Sad to decide the fate of the ‘Novi Sad na vodi’ urban development plan. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/novi-sad-civic-platform-seeks-referendum-on-waterfront-project ### 2026-07-22: Serbia's Novi Sad Faces Controversial Riverfront Development Project A proposed Danube riverbank redevelopment in Novi Sad, led by Galens, faces protests over flood risk, loss of green space, and alleged profit‑driven motives, sparking national debate. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/serbias-novi-sad-faces-controversial-riverfront-development-project --- Cite as: Novi Sad Danube riverfront development controversy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/novi-sad-danube-riverfront-development-controversy