Around 150 people gathered outside Vilnius City Hall on Wednesday to protest planned development along the Neris River, arguing that the project would damage one of the capital’s most valuable natural areas through new construction, tree felling and expanded parking.
The demonstration, held during heavy rain, was organised by environmental groups Fridays For Future Lithuania, Extinction Rebellion Lithuania and the May 1 Trade Union (G1PS).
Protesters oppose redevelopment plans for areas near the beginning of Žirmūnų Street and Vingio Park, where the municipality intends to build a rowing centre, garages, utility buildings and a parking lot while reinforcing parts of the riverbank.
Environmental activists argue the plans would transform a recreational riverside area into what they describe as a technical infrastructure zone.
“By making such decisions, the municipality shows a lack of understanding of the fundamental value of nature,” Fridays For Future Lithuania representative Viltė Zaveckaitė said, noting that the protest took place during a period of record heat affecting much of Europe.
