State Government and Zapopan Halt 17000-Housing Project in Valle de Los Molinos
The Jalisco State Government has successfully halted a significant housing project in Valle de los Molinos, located in northern Zapopan. This decision affects plans for constructing up to 17,000 homes in the area, a move aimed at protecting local ecosystems and managing urban development responsibly.
Legal Actions to Protect the Environment
The initiative to suspend the construction emerged from a legal strategy crafted by the State Attorney for Environmental Protection (Proepa). Authorities believe that the housing project would severely impact the environment and transportation in the region. Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro announced, “We must support the residents of Zapopan by halting this housing development.”
Statements from Officials
- Governor Pablo Lemus emphasized a commitment to protecting natural areas.
- Zapopan Mayor Juan José Frangié stated, “We will not allow more housing in Valle de los Molinos.”
Both officials expressed a determination to preserve the ecological integrity of the area. They aimed to prevent an irresponsible urban expansion that may jeopardize the environment.
Details of the Suspension
The legal action initiated by the governor seeks to overturn a prior resolution from the Sixth Unit Chamber of the Administrative Justice Tribunal. This earlier ruling had facilitated plans to urbanize nearly 100 hectares adjacent to El Nixticuil Forest, a key ecological area.
Initially, the amparo lawsuit was assigned to the Eighth District Court in Administrative Matters, which dismissed it. However, after winning two appeals in Collegiate District Courts, Proepa was able to secure a provisional suspension. This ruling halts any administrative or material progress towards urbanizing the site.
Regulations Imposed
- No issuance of specific use and zoning permits is allowed.
- Construction licenses and environmental clearances intended for urban development purposes are prohibited.
- Any pre-existing permits are ordered to be inactive.
This suspension serves as a significant measure to protect the ecological condition of the area. Governor Lemus referred to this decision as a “historic national achievement.”
Importance of the Area
The land in question is classified as an Ecological Conservation Area by the Zapopan Government. It lies outside the urban growth areas defined in local zoning plans and serves as a vital water recharge zone within the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area.
As a result of this ruling, Zapopan will not issue urban development permits as previously dictated by the Sixth Unit Chamber. The state government has committed to ongoing strategic litigation efforts to defend ecosystems, combat pollution, and address climate change impacts, setting a precedent for environmental justice and promoting a sustainable future for Jalisco.
