The Macedonian Government called on the municipalities of Struga and Ohrid to declare a temporary ban on new development, until a plan to manage the unique natural and cultural treasures of the region is prepared.

Prime Minister Zoran Zaev announced that he will even assume the right to approve new construction permits and to legalize unlawfully built homes from the two mayors, as the region of lake Ohrid faces the threat of losing the status of a UNESCO world heritage site.

The Government called on the two municipalities to prepare a plan on how they will implement UNESCO’s requests within 10 days, and get to work shortly after. The plans are expected to include an ambitious plan to demolish unlawfully built homes, hotels and other construction.