The Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael (KKL) is changing its land purchase policy after 20 years and expanding its activities to central Israel. The recently approved decision allows the Himnuta company to purchase private lands in order to combat illegal construction and preserve open and agricultural spaces. KKL is facing phenomena of illegal land uses, such as waste dumping and the establishment of buildings without permits, and this move aims to ensure the preservation of these areas.
The company intends to purchase lands in areas with high land values, using budgets that were approved in the past. The initiative is supported by local authorities, but there are doubts about KKL's ability to convince landowners to sell at current prices, especially in light of expectations for future land appreciation. This move could economically impact the land market in central Israel, as KKL plans to implement an active purchasing policy to protect agricultural and open spaces from development pressures.