The lake in the Gomel district became a recreation area: how a civic initiative changed a place with a rich history

Solemn opening of the civic initiative "Echo of centuries". Breath of Nature" took place today, September 28, in the village of Grabovka, Gomel district. Thanks to local residents and the support of the authorities, it was possible to improve the lake, which was once part of the manor landscape of the Faschey estate, writes sb.by.

Grabovka is one of the most famous and beautiful settlements of the Gomel district. The village has a rich history. In particular, from the second half of the XVIII to the beginning of the XX century, it belonged to the family family of Faschey. In the XIX century, the owners laid the park, today it is included in the State list of historical and cultural values of Belarus. History has left little material evidence of the former greatness of the estate. The manor house burned down, the apple orchard was destroyed. But the locals, in cooperation with the authorities, have been working hard for many years to preserve the ancient history of this region.

For example, the real brand of the village was the festival “Yekaterina’s Nameday” – this year it was held here for the third time. Once through Grabovka passed the Catherine tract, which gave a powerful impetus to the development of these lands.

Many activities are offered by local residents themselves, a lot of work is carried out in Grabov secondary school. Echo of Centuries: Breath of Nature has won an open regional competition of civic initiatives. It was implemented thanks to the support of the Gomel Regional Association of Local Councils of Deputies and the Gomel District Executive Committee. Active residents were direct participants in the improvement. On the shore of the reservoir, order was restored, a picturesque pier was equipped, benches for rest were installed. The lake, covered with legends and keeping the memory of past centuries, will become a place for rest and walks.

During the opening ceremony, a member of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly, Chairman of the Gomel District Executive Committee Alexander Novikov presented gratitude to all involved in the implementation of the project and stressed:

- Support for such initiatives is an integral part of the strategy for sustainable rural development. The improvement of public spaces forms the appearance of settlements, and it is especially valuable that the residents of Grabovka show an active civic position, personally participating in the transformation of their native land. The improvement of the lake and the surrounding area opens up new opportunities for the development of the recreational potential of Grabovka, harmoniously complementing its rich historical and cultural heritage. The facilities will serve more than one generation of locals, and the efforts made represent a long-term investment in people’s quality of life. I am convinced that such projects, initiated by citizens themselves, will become a worthy example for other village councils of the district.