Bulgaria faces heavy fines because of its failure to meet European requirements concerning the inclusion of terrains in the environmental protection network Natura 2000.

The warning came in the form of letter from ecologists and environment experts, Novinar newspaper reported.

Ecologists said that the initially drafted list of territories for inclusion should be implemented. According to the list more than 30 per cent of Bulgaria’s territory should be part of Natura 2000. The initial plan faces opposition from municipalities and businesses.

Ecologists said that France was fined 20 million euro in total or 316 500 euro for each day it delayed the Natura 2000 decision.

Poland’s fine was denied access to European funds and the country could also face a trial, the letter said.

The initial Bulgarian plan of protected terrains will be submitted to the European Commission by the end of the month, Novinar newspaper reported.

Protests against the introduction of Natura 2000 have been ongoing. Residents of Southwestern Bulgarian towns blocked the road to Bansko on several occasions. Protesters demand minimal inclusion in the environment network.