"I also want numbers, but those that bring well-being, not those that destroy the territory." This is how the mayor of Muravera, Salvatore Piu, motivates the municipal administration's choice to limit access to the beaches of Scoglio di Peppino, Piscina Rei, Monte Nai, Tziu Franciscu, Capo Ferrato.
A decision – including the introduction of paid parking spaces – that has caused much discussion: starting from the summer of 2025, these locations will be subject to a limited number of people, with limited entry based on the availability of parking spaces.
According to the mayor, "not all beaches are the same. Each stretch of our coastline has different characteristics and specific critical issues. The Scoglio di Peppino, for example, is an emblematic case: the beach is in the territory of Muravera, but the parking lots and concessions insist on that of Castiadas. Here a common vision between entities is needed, because the competences are fragmented and it is not possible to plan without clear agreements".
The guiding principle of the new regulation? "Access must be linked to the real capacity to accommodate," explains the mayor. "Our goal is not to exclude, but to protect. If an area can accommodate 500 people, we cannot let 5,000 in. This only leads to degradation, overcrowding, disappearance of sand and wear of coastal habitats."
The three beaches involved in the measure will be regulated on the basis of the parking spaces identified – about 500 spaces in total – which will be managed by a designated company. The rates have already been defined: from 6 to 10 euros per day for cars, from 4 to 7 for motorcycles, and from 9 to 15 for campers. Residents and owners of second homes will be able to take advantage of discounted subscriptions.
"We are aware of the doubts and criticisms," Piu continues, "but overcrowding is already a reality. We can no longer ignore it. Those who accuse us of wanting to "chase away tourists" are wrong: it is not a question of closing the doors, but of preserving the balance. Without a healthy and usable environment, there is no future for tourism either."
Differentiated solutions will be introduced: «Piscina Rei, for example, is located in a wetland area, with specific environmental constraints and criticalities. The parking lots have been identified, but not yet delimited: without that passage we cannot set a maximum number of accesses. The same goes for Monte Nai and Tziu Franciscu».
And on an idea of sustainable tourism he does not compromise: «If we want quality tourism, we must put things in order. We can no longer afford to consume the territory. Tourism that only brings chaos and waste is not development, it is pollution. Our beaches must remain beautiful and accessible, but with intelligence. We need balance. Our stretch of coast is 37 kilometers long and each stretch must be managed with care. We are not closing the beaches. We are protecting the future».
(Unioneonline/E.Fr.)