Prime Minister Ehud Olmert on Thursday told the heads of Gaza envelope communities that he has approved a plan to establish reinforced security rooms in residential buildings no farther than 7 kilometers from the Gaza Strip border.

The security rooms, each measuring 9 square meters, are to be established in 45 communities and 4,500 residential buildings.

The treasury has allotted NIS 300 million for the project, even though costs may reach NIS 900 million.

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Participants at the meeting also asked the prime minister about reinforcing towns in Gush Tzohar, which are not a part of the Gaza envelope but are still vulnerable to Qassam fire. Olmert did not elaborate on any plans for the town.

Participants at the meeting included MK Shai Hermesh (Kadima), Eshkol Regional Council Chairman Uri Naamati, a member of Kibbutz Kfar Aza, Sderot Mayor Eli Moyal, Ashkelon Coast Regional Council Chairman Shimon Cohen, Sha'ar Hanegev Regional Council Chairman Alon Shuster, and Sedot Negev Regional Council Chairman Meir Yifrah.

Hermesh told Israel Radio on Thursday that despite Olmert's statement, he does not intend to withdraw the bill he submitted, which would require the government to fortify Gaza envelope communities.

The towns outside of the Gaza Strip have repeatedly demanded reinforcement for their homes.