Court Orders Demolition of Unauthorized Bora Bora Beach on Sea of Galilee

A district court in Nazareth has ordered the immediate demolition of illegal structures and fencing at the Bora Bora private beach on the Sea of Galilee. The ruling, issued on Wednesday, follows a petition filed by the environmental group "Adam Teva V'Din" (Nature and Man's Law) and Yael Dori, the organization's planning director. The court found that the beach operated for approximately 17 years with extensive illegal construction and without an approved plan, restricting public access and charging admission fees.

The court's decision invalidates the operating permits for the beach, emphasizing that construction on coastlines must adhere to orderly and approved planning. Judges stated that temporary permits, used for 17 years in this case, cannot become a permanent solution. The ruling aims to end the practice of planning and enforcement being treated separately and to prevent construction violations on beaches.

"This ruling has significance far beyond Bora Bora beach," said Ortal Sanker from Adam Teva V'Din's legal department. She highlighted that the court clarified that beaches are public resources and cannot be illegally occupied. Yael Dori added that the decision sends an important message regarding all of Israel's coastlines, addressing planning institutions and those who attempt to seize public beaches.

The court mandated the immediate removal of illegal construction and fencing that prevents free public access to the beach, which is designated as a public resource. The demolition of the structures is to commence without delay.