A space that was a neglected landfill for years will soon be handed over to citizens as a modern green oasis. The new mega park in Butel is in the final phase of construction, on a surface of 8,000 square metres.

According to the announcements, the park will feature rich landscaping, walking paths, children's playgrounds, fitness zones and urban furniture. The idea is to turn a once-neglected space into a place for rest, recreation and everyday activities for all generations. The project is part of a programme to build four mega parks across the City of Skopje.

The idea is good - that should be said honestly. Skopje has lacked green spaces for decades, and turning a landfill into a park is exactly the opposite of what we usually see. But experience has taught us to wait for the opening before celebrating. How many times so far has „final phase" meant another year of waiting?

The real test for any such park isn't opening day with press photos and ceremony, but the second and third summer - whether the lawn is still green, whether the benches are intact, whether the playgrounds are maintained. Butel deserves a green oasis. The question is whether it will stay an oasis or become yet another neglected space with a different label.