Zvërnec protected zone tourism development dispute

The Zvërnec area in Albania has become the center of a dispute regarding tourism development within the Pishë Poro–Nartë protected landscape. Initially, the National Council of Territory and Water (KKTU) approved development permits for three tourist complexes covering over 190,000 square meters. These projects involve land linked to businessman Artur Shehu, who is under investigation for money laundering, and are situated within a contested area known as the ‘10-hectare strip.’

Following these approvals, the Albanian government expressed opposition to a large-scale tourism proposal known as the ‘Zvërnec Peninsula’ project. This proposal, which would have covered approximately 266 hectares and included significant residential and hotel construction, was flagged by the National Agency of Protected Areas for its potential impact on biodiversity, migratory bird habitats, and the Narta Lagoon ecosystem. The project was deemed unacceptable in its current form, leading to requests for more in-depth environmental assessments.