The decision clears the way for the expropriation of real estate on the territory and the construction of infrastructure there, and gives special status to the zone.
As previously reported by LSM, the new Sēlija military zone will occupy an area of approximately 25,000 hectares in the Jēkabpils and Aizkraukle regions. Much of the land is already held by the state, but approximately one thousand hectares currently belong to companies and private owners. Construction is expected to take place around two years.
The Saeima also supported related draft laws, which provide a framework for the development of existing military base infrastructure. The construction of military zone infrastructure will no longer be subject to an initial impact assessment and environmental impact assessment, with the exception of protected nature sites of European interest (Natura 2000).
It is also envisaged to limit the rights of hunters in hunting areas in military base areas; such restrictions will allow for the provision of incentives for the use of hunting rights.
