91999E1926

WRITTEN QUESTION E-1926/99

by Laura González Álvarez (GUE/NGL) to the Commission

(4 November 1999)

Subject: Shortcomings in the Casa de Campo improvement project in Madrid

On 31 March, 20 November 1997 and, more recently, 1 October 1999, the civic association Save the Casa de Campo wrote to DG XVI of the Commission setting out the numerous shortcomings that, in their opinion, were affecting the implementation of project 95.11.61.021-E relating to the development of degraded areas and general improvements to the environment of the Casa de Campo park, financed by the Cohesion Funds and carried out by Madrid city council's environmental department.

In particular, the two much trumpeted dams in the Meaques river built in the first phase of the project; these simply turned into foul-smelling stagnant ponds producing hordes of mosquitoes, quite contrary to their initial purpose, as provided for in the project, namely keeping the watercourse biologically clean. These two dams were later destroyed.

Furthermore, on 28 February 1998, the Madrid city council approved the Second Integrated Improvement of Madrid Scheme, also financed by the Cohesion Fund, which included various plans relating to the conditioning of the Meaques river, at a cost of 388 million pesetas, and the construction of four more dams.

Could the Commission check whether the construction and destruction of these dams has not been paid for twice over? Has the project been delayed, and if so, for what reason? What are the reasons for modifying the project to include the creation of new car parks, instead of implementing measures to control the risk of soil erosion? Why have historical and environmental features not been restored as in the case of the historical adobe wall built in the 18th Century? Why has the daily traffic flow of more than 50 000 cars across the Casa de Campo park not been restricted, in view of its detrimental effect on the environment?

Answer given by Mr Barnier on behalf of the Commission

(26 November 1999)

The Commission is collecting the information it needs to answer the question. It will communicate its findings as soon as possible.