The decision to create a national park will depend on public opinion

Government to finance coastal projects for 6.5 million euros

Casor-1. The purchase of the plot in Arenal d´en Castell will protect it from development

The Minister for the Environment guaranteed 2.5 millions for the purchase of a plot in Arenal d´en Castell, 2.48 for coastal paths and 1.5 for Sa Farola road

Christine M. Watterson.Maó

Speaking in a press conference held during her visit to the island last week, the Minister for the Environment, Cristina Narbona, promised that a sum of 6.5 million euros would be earmarked to finance four Menorcan projects designed to "guarantee public use and enjoyment of the coast".

Two of the projects involve parts of the coastal path which are in the public land and maritime domain: the first, a stretch of 28.6 kms. between Son Bou and Cala Galdana, work on which has already started and is estimated at 1,651,865 euros; and the other, a 834,420 euro scheme on the section of the path between Cala Galdana and Son Xoriguer. Work will also be carried out on the sections of the Camí de Cavalls which run across public land.

In addition to these, Narbona outlined a project to improve the road to Sa Farola. With an agreement having been reached between the Balearic Government and the landowners, which includes modifications to the original plans, the way is now clear for the Coastal Authorities to start work in January 2007. At a cost of 1.5 million euros, the road is to be converted to a two-lane road with cycle track.

The fourth conservation scheme is the purchase of a plot of land, Casor-1, in Arenal d´en Castell for the sum of 2.5 million euros. This area will then become public land and will be protected from building speculation.

The minister also touched on the subject of the Son Blanc jetty, saying that she was satisfied with the agreement reached with the Island Council and adding that the Ministry´s views on the project had changed as it is now more contained and will have less of an impact on the coastline. This statement would seem to suggest that the State Government will agree to concede the area of water necessary for the construction of the breakwater.

Asked about the proposal to create a national park on the island, the Minister replied that this would depend on the wishes of the people.

Narbona concluded by making reference to the high level of nitrates found in drinking water in parts of the island. She considered it "desirable" that the Balearic Government exercise its powers to the full to achieve better control of the quantity and quality of drinking water.