More than BGN 1.5 billion are invested in the modernization of 40 urban municipalities under the Development of Regions Programme 2021-2027

The application process begins with the first real projects for the construction and modernisation of different types of infrastructure

More than BGN 1.5 billion will be invested in the modernization of 40 urban municipalities under the Development of Regions Programme 2021-2027. The funds are provided by the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works under the Development of Regions Programme 2021-2027 (DRP) within the framework of Priority 1 “Integrated Urban Development” and Priority 2 “Integrated Territorial Development of Regions” of the DRP. The Managing Authority of the Programme has published the guidelines and started the application process with the first concrete projects under the Programme, set out in the approved Integrated Territorial Investment Concepts. The projects aim to promote economic growth and balanced territorial development of Bulgarian regions.

The procedure “Support for integrated urban development in 40 urban municipalities” enables investments in different types of infrastructure. The 40 urban municipalities are from the 6 NUTS 2 planning regions: Aitos, Asenovgrad, Botevgrad, Velingrad, Vratsa, Gabrovo, Gorna Oryahovitsa, Gotse Delchev, Dimitrovgrad, Dobrich, Dupnitsa, Kazanlak, Karlovo, Karnobat, Kardzhali, Kyustendil, Lovech, Lom, Montana, Nova Zagora, Pazardzhik, Panagyurishte, Pernik, Petrich, Peshtera, Razgrad, Samokov, Sandanski, Svilengrad, Svishtov, Sevlievo, Silistra, Sliven, Smolyan, Troyan, Targovishte, Harmanli, Haskovo, Shumen and Yambol.

The aim of the grant funding is to create economically stronger regions, reduce inter-regional and intra-regional disparities and overcome negative demographic trends.

The programme will finance projects to improve the energy efficiency of residential and public buildings, reducing final energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Activities for the improvement of the urban environment and inter-block spaces in cities, construction and modernisation of infrastructure are also eligible. Measures to modernise social infrastructure, including the construction of modern social housing to accommodate vulnerable and disadvantaged groups, are also supported. The programme will also invest in the renovation and modernisation of various types of educational, cultural and health infrastructure. Priority will also be given to building more efficient, faster and greener urban transport with less energy consumption and opportunities for alternative forms of transport. Regions can also apply for the construction and repair of existing roads, as well as the development of tourism services and cultural heritage.

The deadline for applications is 11.02.2025.