New law to protect Balaton region nears passage

A new law governing development in the region around Lake Balaton is supported by both governing and opposition MPs, which is an unusual situation in Hungary, writes napi.hu.

The current law regulating development around the lake was passed eight years ago, and is widely believed to have been rendered obsolete in the years since. The new bill will continue to protect the landscape of the region, while opening the door for development projects.

All opposition parties have said they will vote for the bill, and the law is likely to be passed on June 9.

According to the new legislation, 15 new settlements would be added to the Balaton region, bringing the total number to 179. Meanwhile, towns belonging to the main holiday area will be prevented from merging, and separated by protective zones, in order to preserve the landscape. In addition, the construction of new overhead power lines will be prohibited.

Nine settlements which applied to be included in the protected region will not be added as they did not meet certain requirements, including a need to update sewage treatment systems.

The new law also prohibits industrial activity along the planned stretches of the M8 and M75 motorways near the lake.

Finally, the law classifies Sármellék's Balaton Airport as an airport of "national significance." The other two airports in the region, Siófok-Kiliti and Veszprém-Szentkirályszabadja, would be classified as of regional significance.

It is estimated that tourism produces 8.5% to 10% of Hungary GDP, which means the Balaton region has a 3% to 3.5% share in the country's economy.

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