Liepāja Completes Another Phase of Zirgu Sala Development, Final Stage Begins
In Liepāja, the eastern part of Zirgu Sala has been recultivated and a roller skating track built, while the final phase of restoration with a health trail and improved infrastructure has started.
The Liepāja municipality continues the restoration of the degraded Zirgu Sala (Horse Island). In late June, the recultivation of the eastern part covering 3.35 hectares was completed, along with the construction of an 883-meter roller skating track with energy-efficient LED lighting. The track connects to the previously built roller skating loop.
During recultivation, shrubs were cut, trees cleaned, and greenery planted on 1,896 square meters. The construction was carried out by SIA "A-Land", with supervision by SIA "Geo Consultants" and design supervision by SIA "BM-projekts". The works were accepted for operation on June 26.
This phase was implemented with support from the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), in cooperation with the "Liepāja District Partnership". Total costs amounted to EUR 571,710.14, of which EUR 517,659.64 came from EMFAF and EUR 54,050.50 from the Liepāja state city municipality.
Final Phase by 2027
Simultaneously, the municipality has launched the last development stage of Zirgu Sala, to be completed by summer 2027. The project includes reed fragmentation in Lake Liepāja over 28 hectares, construction of a health trail with a wooden boardwalk, three rest areas, outdoor exercise equipment, and benches. It also plans new sanitary facilities in the parking lot, landscaping, and educational events.
This phase is financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) with EUR 637,500, bringing total project costs to EUR 750,000. The project is part of the EU Cohesion Policy Programme 2021–2027.
Historically, Zirgu Sala served as a city dump, and since 2017 the municipality has gradually transformed it into an active recreation area. Future plans include adding new leisure activities and educational initiatives.
