Activists Urge Halt to ‘Zabjelo-Ljubovic’ Urban Plan in Podgorica

Residents of Podgorica are calling for the suspension of the urban development plan known as “Zabjelo-Ljubovic” and for the creation of a new local planning document. This initiative was launched by the non-governmental organization, Grupa KANA, which submitted a formal request to the Secretariat for Spatial Planning and Sustainable Development of the Capital City of Podgorica last week.

The organization is advocating that the development of a new local planning document for the “Zabjelo-Ljubovic” area be included in the Urban Planning Program for Podgorica for 2026. According to the current legislation on spatial planning, this program allows for the adoption of new plans as well as amendments to existing documents. The program is currently open for public discussion until December 31, allowing residents the opportunity to participate in shaping its future.

Grupa KANA expressed strong discontent with the “Zabjelo-Ljubovic” plan, stating that it should have been annulled back in 2014, the year its intended duration expired. They argue that it was inappropriate for the plan to return to the active planning documentation after being annulled by the Capital City in 2020. The decision to annul was based on concerns that further implementation of the planned developments would jeopardize public interest.

Despite the annulment, construction continues under the “Zabjelo-Ljubovic” plan, leading to mounting complaints from residents in the area. Grupa KANA emphasizes the need for the authorities to take responsibility, as mandated by a law enacted in 2025, which designates decision-makers at the city level as responsible for spatial planning in Podgorica. They are demanding an immediate halt to the current plan’s implementation and call for a decisive shift towards developing a new plan through a transparent and participatory process.

In their social media initiative, Grupa KANA outlined what they believe should occur. They provided a comprehensive explanation of the history and issues surrounding the “Zabjelo-Ljubovic” plan, asserting that a new plan for the area is urgent, necessary, and the only viable solution for the community.

As the public discussion period progresses, residents and stakeholders are encouraged to engage actively, as their input could significantly shape the future of urban planning in Podgorica.