Illegal structure in Borisova Gradina demolished: Sofia reclaims the park

End of illegal use in Borisova Garden

Sofia Municipality has taken decisive action to restore public spaces in the city. An illegal structure with an area of 140 sq. m, located in Borisova Garden right next to Ariana Lake, was removed. The facility had been operating for nearly two decades without a contract or legal basis, and had not been fulfilling a public function in recent years.

"The law applies to everyone. Our approach is the same – the public interest comes above private interest," said the Mayor of Sofia, Vasil Terziev.

The dismantling was carried out at no cost to the municipal budget, which is a step toward clearing the park of illegally occupied territories.

New Detailed Spatial Plan – a guarantee for the future of the park

Mayor Terziev emphasized that the long-term solution for Borisova Garden is the adoption of a new Detailed Spatial Plan (DSP). Its goals are:

• Limiting new construction and protecting historical identity.
• Restoration of iconic sites such as the Maria Luiza lido, the Summer Theater, and Yunak Stadium.
• Improving pedestrian and bicycle accessibility.
• Restricting vehicular access.

Currently, 441 statements regarding the plan have been received, which will be reviewed by the Municipal Expert Council on Spatial Planning on July 15. The process aims not only to solve old problems but also to create clear rules that will prevent them from reoccurring.