The old industrial areas of Bourgas will be transformed into new residential areas, according to the new project for town planning. The plan should be ready in 18 months it was announced yesterday by architect Petko Yovchev, who’s firm, AtikaR5, is engaged with the project.

According to Arch. Yovchev, at present in the seaside town too much space is occupied by industrial areas – around 60%. The towns’ growth will be redirected towards the sea and the recourses of the three lakes will be used. A new transport system is also in the pipeline, which will cut the traveling times between the towns and villages. There also be areas for tall construction, but they will not be in the Naval Garden, said Arch. Yonchev. He believes that the city center in Bourgas has nearly exhausted its potential for future development and this brings the need for the local government to seek new growth, most likely north of “Troikata” square. The old town planning of the city has been in place since 1984 and is designed for a population of 80-90 thousand people. At present the town has 270 000 inhabitants and the new town planning is designed for 400 000 in order for the city to easily cope with the rush in the summer season.