* The project is located on figure #12.

Location
Peace Forest near Abu Tor.

Initiator
Elad Settlers’ Association.

Implementer
Elad Settlers’ Association.

Project Description

The Zip-Line (Omega Route) stretches for 784 meters - from Armon Ha-Natsiv to the “Peace Forest” near Abu Tor. It is the longest such facility in Israel. It includes two concrete pillars covered with wood, four meters high, between which a cable will be stretched. Stretch between Beit Schatz and the “Peace Forest Camping Ground”, two sites controlled by Elad Settlers’ Association, it is no wonder that some critics have called it “Touristic settlement”. The project will harm the historic basin landscape of Jerusalem because it does not suit the character of the city.
Even according to Israeli law, the authorization process for this project is problematic, since the area in question is a recognized forest according to the National Outline Plan for Forests (TMA22). As such, for Elad Settlers’ Association to receive a permit, an amendment to the status of the forest was required. The District Planning and Construction Committee and later the National Planning and Building Council approved the change of forest status for this purpose.

Status

• In 2018, permit was granted under Plan EM/9, which was approved 40 years ago.
• On 10.12.2019, the District Planning Committee approved a change in the forest status of the area in order to legalize the permit.

Approving Entity
Jerusalem Local and District Planning Committee.

Objections
Emek Shaveh, Peace Now, JNF, and local residents.

Implementation
The structure already exists, and the site is expected to begin operations in September 2023.

Pictures above by ACAP.