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International Urban Laboratory

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Analytics

Assessing the Feasibility of a Tourism Special Economic Zone Adjacent to Oryol Polesye National Park

Oryol Region

An analytical study aimed at identifying the economic, social and socio-cultural prerequisites for establishing a tourism and recreation special economic zone (SEZ) is underway in the Oryol Region. The project is being conducted by LLC “CENTER LAB” with the support of the regional government.

The project is currently in an active phase. The next step will be a strategic session involving key stakeholder groups to define user-centered development scenarios for the SEZ.

Objective of the Study: To assess the feasibility and long-term potential of creating a tourism and recreation SEZ adjacent to Oryol Polesye National Park – taking into account economic, social, environmental and infrastructure factors.

Key Tasks

Evaluate the current state of infrastructure and its development potential in the target area.
Create a framework for decision-making regarding the delineation and configuration of the SEZ boundaries.

The study includes:

field surveys of the territory, including assessment of transport accessibility, infrastructure and potential investment sites;
evaluation of the development potential of a tourism and recreation SEZ;
estimation of potential tourist flows based on different visitor segments;
development of preliminary spatial development scenarios;
forecasting the environmental impact of increased anthropogenic pressure;
conducting socio-cultural research incorporating input from residents and experts;

<strong>Andrey Karpov</strong>

Head of the Territorial Development Projects Department of the Government of the Oryol Region

Notes that approximately three-quarters of Russia’s population resides in the European part of the country – including the Moscow agglomeration, one of the largest globally, projected to reach 30 million people by 2030. Against this backdrop, the unique natural and recreational assets of Oryol Polesye, the growing demand for eco-tourism, and proximity to solvent markets seeking short-term travel opportunities create strong conditions for investment. The establishment of a tourism SEZ could act as a critical catalyst for unlocking this development potential.

The study covers areas adjacent to Oryol Polesye National Park, as well as the protected natural territory itself. The park is a key природный asset of the region, known for its biodiversity, the largest population of European bison in Russia and an established network of tourist routes.

<strong>Ketevan Khelaia</strong>

Co-founder and CEO of LLC “CENTER LAB”

We have a strong track record in projects involving national parks. At the early stage of our activity, we provided expert support for the first phase of tourism clusters funded under the federal program for domestic and inbound tourism development. This included the Nikola-Lenivets cluster, located near Ugra National Park in the Kaluga Region.
We approach environmental legislation and protected areas with great care. LLC “CENTER LAB” has also developed Russia’s first regional tourism master plan – for the Republic of Khakassia. We have contributed to major interregional initiatives such as the Golden Ring of Russia and the Silver Necklace of Russia. Today, we are pleased to contribute to another promising project – the “Turquoise Ring of Russia.

Photo: LLC “CENTER LAB”

On December 10, 2025, experts from LLC “CENTER LAB” conducted a field assessment of the territory adjacent to Oryol Polesye National Park.

During the visit, they inspected potential sites for the SEZ and the protected natural area itself. Experts assessed transport accessibility, existing infrastructure and potential investment sites, and held meetings with park representatives, investors and профильные specialists.

The results of the field visit will form the basis for further analysis of the feasibility of establishing a tourism and recreation SEZ in the region.