ERC’s Doubts and the Local Debate
The local sections of ERC in El Prat de Llobregat, Gavà and Viladecans have expressed their disagreement with the recent decision of the Government, which extends the Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA) in the Llobregat delta. According to them, this agreement has been taken without the active participation of those interested, which has led to a general feeling of rejection.
Impact of the Decision at the Local Level
The approval by the Government, which adds 1,472 hectares of protection, bringing the total to 2,407 hectares in the region, has generated controversy around future extensions to El Prat airport. There are fears that the increase in protected areas could have negative repercussions on the Parc Agrari del Baix Llobregat. Various agricultural and environmental organisations, such as the Agropecuaria de Gavà and Unió de Pagesos, have expressed their opposition to the measure.
The Voice of Labor Promotion
Foment del Treball has also opposed this agreement. Its president, Josep Sánchez Llibre, argued that the approval of this expansion by a caretaker government is unacceptable. He described the agreement as ‘unpresentable and irresponsible’, stating that this action hinders the long-awaited expansion of the airport.
A European Mandate and its Context
The need to expand the protected area in the delta originates from a requirement from the European Commission in 2021, which arose after an environmental complaint in 2003. This provision has led the Government to commit to redefining the SPA, which now extends to multiple municipalities near the Llobregat, covering 2,407 hectares that include several key areas.
Areas Included in the New SPA
The expansion of the SPA impacts not only the delta area, but also important natural and urban spaces around the river. From the N-340 bridge to its mouth, a variety of ecosystems, recreational areas and areas of ecological interest are now included, which will be vital for the preservation of local biodiversity.
Reflections on the Future of the Delta
While the dialogue between the interested parties continues, the future of the airport expansion and environmental protection in the Llobregat Delta will remain a hot topic. The balance between urban development and environmental conservation is presented as a crucial challenge that will have to be addressed in the coming months.
