Aufgeregt über Borovj rief der Mitarbeiter der Stadt Alka Vuicu an: 'Wie kannst du dich nicht schämen?!'

A city official verbally insulted Alka Vuica during a media conference after she presented over 1,000 signatures against new construction on green space near Ulica I. gardijske Brigade Tigrovi. The incident occurred following the submission of petitions by the initiative “Stop betonizaciji Borovja” to Zagreb City authorities. The group opposes plans to build residential buildings on land they claim has already been redeveloped, turning what was once a green area into a potential urban expansion. The confrontation took place during a public meeting where Vuica, a well-known singer and member of the initiative, was questioned by an unidentified man working for the City Office for Economy, Ecology, and Strategic Planning. He accused her of hypocrisy, saying, “How dare you? You built a swimming pool instead of a garden on your property, yet now you advocate for green spaces.” Vuica responded by asking his name and position, to which he did not respond. She then pointed out that all construction projects require permits from local authorities and the city. The initiative claims the original plan, dating back to 2006, might have had merit at the time but is no longer suitable given current conditions. Domagoj Morić, a spokesperson for the initiative, stated that before proceeding with further actions, several key assessments must be conducted, including environmental impact, traffic infrastructure, educational facilities, and municipal services. He emphasized the need for greater community involvement in decision-making processes, echoing concerns raised by residents who feel excluded from discussions affecting their neighborhood. Residents of Borovje oppose the proposed construction on the grassy area adjacent to Ulica I. gardijske Brigade Tigrovi, fearing the loss of the last remaining green space in the district. They argue that while affordable housing is not inherently problematic, concentrating such developments in one area could lead to segregation and social issues. Morić warned that the project could result in the destruction of rare protected bird species found in the nearby ornithological park. Vuica highlighted existing challenges in the area, including insufficient school and daycare capacity, limited access points, and the absence of medical facilities. She noted that the site was previously used as a waste dump, raising concerns about contamination. “We don’t know what will happen when excavators start digging there,” she said. “We have witnesses, people who lived through those years, who can confirm the presence of contaminated waste.” The initiative is calling for a thorough review of the site’s history and its potential environmental risks. If necessary, they have indicated they will use all available means, including citizen assemblies or petitions, to ensure the city listens to their concerns. Public debate on the issue continues until tomorrow, with the possibility of legal action looming should the city proceed with the construction plans.