Planned expressway in Bauska region prompts residents’ concerns

A planned expressway more than 14 kilometres long, linking the Bauska bypass with the Lithuanian border, has drawn both support and concern from local residents, LSM reports. At a public consultation in Ceraukste attended by more than 100 people, residents raised questions about land expropriation, access to properties and changes to their living environment.

Latvian State Roads is assessing two possible routes. One would follow the main route of the existing A7 from the Bauska bypass to the Lithuanian border. The other would go around Ceraukste village before rejoining the A7.

The plans include parallel access roads and two-level interchanges, but residents questioned whether they would be able to reach their properties and farmland. One participant said two-thirds of their farm’s land could be lost, leaving the house surrounded, and asked what kind of walls would be built.

Farmers in Ceraukste and Brunava parishes said the parallel roads must be suitable for large agricultural machinery, including combines and tractors carrying heavy loads.

Residents living near the proposed road also voiced concerns about its impact on their surroundings. One local resident said they supported infrastructure development but were worried the route would extend into a green area beside an apartment building. Residents also raised concerns about possible expropriation of homes.