Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002519/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Diana Riba i Giner (Verts/ALE)
The Government of Catalonia has resurrected the plans to extend Barcelona-El Prat Airport. This would directly affect protected natural areas such as La Ricarda and El Remolar, both of which are part of the Natura 2000 network. Independent technical studies warn that the expansion could cause irreversible ecological damage, and would affect dozens of protected species and sensitive habitats.
A number of measures have been proposed to offset the environmental damage, but many reports argue that they would not be sufficient to prevent fragmentation of the ecosystem or to comply with the obligations laid down in the Habitats and Birds Directives.
In view of the above:
- 1.Has the Commission had any communication from the Government of Catalonia regarding the compensatory measures required, or any other consultation or information on this project?
- 2.Does it believe that an expansion that directly affects Natura 2000 sites can be compatible with EU legislation?
- 3.If the project goes ahead, what procedure will the Commission follow to assess its compliance with EU law?
Submitted: 23.6.2025