Boris Bonev, Chair of Spasi Sofia, addressed journalists before a Sofia Municipal Council session regarding a development report for the Mladost district. Bonev characterized the proposal—which involves constructing a 22-story building with an estimated 60,000 sq m of gross floor area—as highly problematic and indicative of a potential corrupt arrangement proceeding contrary to public interest. He argued that the plan would permit significant overdevelopment at a key intersection within Mladost.
Bonev stated that residents of the area have historically elected representatives who advocate for curbing excessive construction rather than promoting it. During the discussion, council member and architect Rositsa Nikolova highlighted the property ownership structure, noting that the Sofia Municipality holds a 92% stake, while the private owner possesses only 8%. She contended that this ownership ratio logically mandates that the municipality dictate the terms and conditions for future development.
Bonev also criticized the political environment, suggesting that the current governance climate allows for actions that bypass proper oversight. He pointed out that the submitted report mirrors a proposal from a previous term, which had been withdrawn following public opposition, even when a major political bloc held a majority. The controversy has drawn criticism toward political factions supporting the measure, as well as Mayor Vassil Terziev, who has not publicly weighed in on the issue.
The debate centers on balancing large-scale urban development in sofia with the perceived needs and interests of the Mladost community.
Topics: #sofia #mladost #corrupt
