Environmental procedures for the construction of the Strumyani – Berovo border control checkpoint between Bulgaria and North Macedonia have been approved, the Regional Development and Public Works Ministry said in a press release.
The decision gives the green light for the implementation of the investment project for the border crossing, the related infrastructure, and the connecting Road III-1008 from Strumyani to the border. The project is being developed by the Blagoevgrad Regional Administration and the Road Infrastructure Agency.
The approved Route Option 1 provides for a shorter crossing, a smaller volume of construction works, and a more limited environmental impact. The selected route complies with environmental protection requirements, including the objectives for protecting the Kresna – Ilindentsi protected area within the Natura 2000 network. At the same time, it allows the infrastructure project to proceed with minimal impact on natural landscapes and biodiversity, the Ministry added.
The total value of the project is EUR 11 million, including national co-financing from both countries.
The successful completion of the environmental procedures is seen as an important step towards implementing the project and improving connectivity in the cross-border region.
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