Tirana International Airport-sponsored tourism development plan presented to Preza Commune

·The plan aims to turn Preza into an adventure tourism destination ·17,000 Euros were invested in study preparation

Canoeing, swimming, diving, fishing, walking and climbing in Preza. Are such activities possible in this small inland commune known only for its castle? According to the tourism development plan sponsored by Tirana International Airport (TIA) they are. The TIA-sponsored plan has now been finished and will be presented to the beneficiaries in a ceremony organized in Preza castle on 16 May 2007, at 11.00hrs in the presence of the media and representatives of the government.

“With this project we want to help Preza becoming a tourist attraction, thus supporting the growth of the local economy and greatly improving the life of the community here. By introducing this study to all parties involved, TIA would like to encourage the Commune of Preza but also the Ministry of Tourism to take over from here. TIA’s role was and is to show the potential of Preza by proposing a concept for developing the area and we are confident that this study will not only remain on paper”, said TIA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Constantin von Alvensleben.

17,000 Euros have been invested by TIA in the preparation of the study. The development of a tourism development plan for the community of Preza was identified by TIA as a worthy project to help improve the quality of life of its residents as well as the economic growth of the area.Following the holding of a tender launched by the end of the year 2006, the Preza study was developed over a three-month period by the experienced British consultancy firm Goulds Properties UK Limited. With TIA assistance, meetings were held between the winning firm and the local authorities, as well as with respective ministries and institutions, in order to discuss the project and related issues. The completed study was handed over to TIA in mid-April and now the study will be handed over to the Mayor of Preza Commune.

“This study is a great asset to our commune. Counting on the support of the government or foreign investors, our efforts will ensure the success of the implementation of the tourism development plan, transforming Preza into a great place to visit. We are certain that this area has great potential for attracting local and foreign tourists,” said the head of Preza commune, Mr. Mehmet Halili.

The tourism plan comprises development of Preza castle and its surrounding countryside. The plan aims at transforming the castle into a great cultural asset of regional and national significance and, along with Kruja and Petrela, re-establishes the importance of the three castles that ring the city of Tirana. Preza castle, of Roman origin, is perched at the top of a hill near the airport and is easily reachable from the Tirana–Durrës highway. To the west of Preza village itself there is very attractive countryside: in its valleys lie two reservoirs, and its serene beauty and tranquility is an ideal location for outdoor activities: canoeing, swimming, diving, fishing, walking and climbing.