Construction Inspectorate finds: construction of the Chemical Institute in Ljubljana is illegal

The Slovenian Building Inspectorate has confirmed that the construction of a new research centre for gene and cell therapy at the Kemijski Inštitut (Chemical Institute) in Ljubljana is illegal. The institute had begun building a large reinforced concrete diaphragm wall around the site without obtaining a construction permit, which was later ordered to be removed. According to reports, over two million euros have been spent on this unauthorized work. The Kemijski Inštitut, located at Hajdrihova Street in Ljubljana, plans to construct a major Centre for Technology in Gene and Cell Therapy. It had already started building the massive reinforced concrete diaphragm walls, which were meant to protect surrounding buildings during the demolition of the old structure. These walls are 20 meters deep and 60 centimeters wide. However, the institute did not obtain the necessary construction permit, violating the Building Law. This case highlights a known practice in Slovenia, where investors, both individuals and companies, often begin construction before securing official permits, expecting to retroactively adjust the situation. This particular instance involving the Kemijski Inštitut is especially notable due to its implications for legal compliance and environmental protection. The diaphragm walls were initially intended to safeguard neighboring structures during the demolition of the existing building. However, according to Tilen Erjavč, owner of a family-run hotel adjacent to the site, the old building was demolished without a construction permit, and the diaphragm walls were constructed afterward, supposedly to prevent damage to nearby properties. Yet, recent findings suggest that the purpose of these walls was different than originally stated. In February 2026, the Erjavč family submitted an urgent complaint to the Slovenian Environmental Inspectorate (IRSOP) regarding suspected illegal construction activities on the Kemijski Inštitut's premises. They noted that cracks had appeared on their property during the construction phase. The inspectorate requested immediate oversight of the legality of the ongoing works, citing the lack of a construction permit. Inspector Peter Karba, who leads the investigation, confirmed that the construction of the reinforced concrete diaphragm without a valid permit constitutes an illegal object. On June 10, 2026, he issued an inspection decision requiring the removal of the structure. The decision was delivered to the Kemijski Inštitut, though the deadline for voluntary removal has not yet expired. Tilen Erjavč claims that the construction of the diaphragm has already caused damage to his property, even though the main works have not yet commenced. A photo accompanying the report shows the affected area. According to Dr. Gorazd Trpin, an expert in administrative law, the objection raised against the Ministry of Environment and Spatial Planning does not suspend the obligation to remove the diaphragm, as the order is enforceable. If the Kemijski Inštitut fails to act, the inspector will arrange for its removal through a licensed contractor, with costs borne by the institution. Despite the ministry’s recent confirmation of the validity of the construction permit for the research centre, the permit explicitly excludes the diaphragm wall. Therefore, the alleged “rectification” of illegal construction does not apply here. The ministry has reaffirmed the validity of the permit solely for the research centre. It is worth noting that more than two million euros have already been spent on the unauthorized diaphragm walls. The planned new research centre is estimated to cost approximately 30 million euros, with the European Union likely playing a role in funding.