# Zvërnec protected zone tourism development dispute > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/zvrnec-protected-zone-tourism-development-dispute > Updated: 2026-10-02T20:13:55.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. 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. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-02: Albanian government rejects Zvërnec tourism project The Albanian government rejected a tourism project in Zvërnec that proposed 8-story buildings in a protected area, citing risks to biodiversity and the Narta Lagoon. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/albanian-government-rejects-zvrnec-tourism-project ### 2026-09-29: Zvërnec protected zone sees approval for three new tourist resorts The KKTU has approved three tourist resort developments in Albania's protected Zvërnec area on contested land linked to businessman Artur Shehu. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zvrnec-protected-zone-sees-approval-for-three-new-tourist-resorts --- Cite as: Zvërnec protected zone tourism development dispute. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/zvrnec-protected-zone-tourism-development-dispute