Montesalina, formerly known as Solana L&L Company, which has previously shown interest in leasing the Ulcinj Saltworks, has submitted a proposal for revitalizing the business in response to a recently published public call for ideas aimed at enhancing the sustainability of the Nature Park area.
This was confirmed by Montesalina’s CEO, Adrian Gazivoda.
The Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Northern Development issued the public call, with submissions open until January 14 of next year.
“Through this initiative, Montesalina has demonstrated its commitment to preserving this historic and natural gem. The goal is to revive traditional salt production while ensuring the sustainable development of this area, which is known for its cultural and ecological significance,” Gazivoda said.
He reminded that the Saltworks has a decades-long tradition of salt production and is considered one of the key habitats for migratory bird species.
“After years of inactivity, this public call presents an opportunity to restart production while preserving natural resources and cultural identity,” Gazivoda added.
The Ministry recently called on individuals and companies from both Montenegro and abroad to propose, among other things, innovative ideas that would promote traditional salt production, encourage the diversification of local products related to salt production, and support other complementary industries.
Gazivoda emphasized that their business proposal includes modernizing the salt production process while strictly adhering to sustainable development principles.
The plan, he said, envisions the creation of new jobs for the local population and collaboration with ecological and tourist organizations to further promote the value of the Saltworks.
“This is a unique opportunity to blend tradition and innovation. Our goal is to transform the ‘Bajo Sekulić’ Saltworks into an ecologically and economically significant center that benefits both the community and nature,” Gazivoda stated.
He noted that local authorities and the public are eagerly awaiting the results of this process, given the significance of revitalizing the Saltworks for the entire region.
The Ministry pointed out that the Saltworks began operations in 1934, but salt production ceased in 2013. The cessation of salt production and the regulation of the water regime in the Saltworks area today threatens the entire ecosystem.
As previously reported by Vijesti, Montesalina also expressed its interest in long-term leasing of the “Bajo Sekulić” Saltworks to the Commercial Court at the end of last year. If they receive a positive response, the company intends to begin negotiations with the Government about taking over the oldest Ulcinj factory for at least 20 years.
Gazivoda confirmed that in early December last year, they sent a letter of intent to Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and the Government, receiving a response from the Ministry of Economic Development, headed by Nik Gjeloshaj, shortly after.
Gjeloshaj directed them to the bankruptcy administrator and the Commercial Court to ensure that any subsequent decisions align with the applicable laws and the opinion of the Commercial Court.
Bankruptcy proceedings at the Ulcinj company began in mid-2005, and after an unsuccessful reorganization plan, it has been in classic bankruptcy since 2011.
Since August 2015, the public enterprise responsible for managing national parks has overseen the oldest Ulcinj factory, aiming to protect biodiversity.
The Municipality of Ulcinj, which was expected to take over the management of the Saltworks in August 2022, had previously withdrawn due to its inability to create the legal framework necessary to undertake the project.
