Bonifika has a new decoration, but the fence is not equally accepted by all visitors and users

A new gray fence has been erected around an auxiliary football pitch at Bonifika sports complex in Koper, sparking mixed public reaction. The structure was installed overnight without prior notice, blocking views of the grass field and raising questions among visitors and users about its purpose. According to Duško Madžarović, director of the Public Sports Institute MOK, the fence was placed at the request of FC Koper to improve conditions for training sessions. The club fully funded the installation, and the gray color was chosen by the players themselves. Madžarović stated there is currently no need to remove the fence since it allows for better training conditions. The new fence surrounds the auxiliary football pitch at Bonifika. FC Koper explained that the structure provides greater privacy and isolation for the top-tier football team during high-level training sessions. Club representatives noted that environmental factors can sometimes be distracting during elite training, and the addition offers more seclusion. They emphasized that similar practices are common elsewhere in the world. While access to the field is not entirely restricted, the Public Sports Institute clarified that the infrastructure was originally intended for clubs participating in the annual sports program funded through tenders. Other free time slots are available for commercial use, with grass surfaces limited based on usage conditions and seasonal changes. Madžarović highlighted that training activities on other fields will continue uninterrupted. However, many coaches in different sports prefer conducting their activities without the presence of parents, who are often considered a disruptive factor. The institute believes the fence enhances training quality, reinforcing the decision not to remove it. The installation of the fence has led to varied responses from the community. Some residents appreciate the improved training environment for professional athletes, while others question the lack of transparency regarding the decision. Local media have reported that the sudden change caught many off guard, prompting discussions about the balance between professional sports needs and public access to facilities. Despite these concerns, the Public Sports Institute maintains that the measure aligns with the facility's primary function and the interests of the sports teams using it. FC Koper has defended the move, emphasizing that the fence supports the club’s training requirements and does not prevent general access to the area. They pointed out that the structure is temporary and serves a specific purpose during peak training periods. Meanwhile, the institute reiterated that the infrastructure is primarily allocated for the annual sports program, with additional availability managed according to demand and conditions. The situation highlights ongoing debates about how to manage shared sports facilities to meet both professional and public needs. As the debate continues, the focus remains on ensuring that the sports complex functions effectively for all stakeholders involved.