site.bta Regional Development Ministry Check Finds Access to Black Sea Beaches Hampered

Regional Development Ministry Check Finds Access to Black Sea Beaches Hampered

Sofia, August 24 (BTA) - A check conducted by the Ministry of
Regional Development and Public Works found a series of
violations of the Black Sea Coastal Development Act, made by
concessionaires and renters. The check was assigned to the
Ministry by the Supreme Administrative Prosecution Office
(SAPO), the Office said in a press release.

The check found that citizens' free access to beaches along the
Bulgarian Black Sea coast was hindered. The total area of
movable equipment and objects exceeds the area set in the Black
Sea Coastal Development Act. The paid beach zones' area exceeds
the free area provided for beach goers to lay down their towels,
 umbrellas, etc., which is also in violation of the schemes
established by the Regional Development Minister. There were
also negative findings regarding medical services, sanitary
conditions, lifeguarding, SAPO noted.

It was determined that the Ministry of Regional Development and
Public Works has so far been efficient with controlling and
monitoring the legality, management and maintenance of coastal
beaches. The Ministry's responsibility include prescribing penal
 provisions as provided by the law. SAPO proposes that sanctions
 are imposed, while the Ministry must inform it within a month.