Area Ranking Issues
The Association points out in its announcement that the proposed Spatial Plan classifies Ermoupolis in the control areas, a category shared with tourist oversaturated destinations such as Skiathos, Santorini, Mykonos and Rhodes. This ranking, as the engineers report, is incorrect, as Ermoupolis is at an early stage of tourism development, unlike the rest of the regions that face saturation problems.
Poseidonia is classified in the developed areas, which the Association also considers incorrect, as the area does not have the tourist infrastructure that would justify this classification.
Lack of Incentives for Development
According to the announcement, the new Spatial Plan does not provide the necessary incentives for the tourist development of Ermoupoli. The restriction to the construction of only 4 and 5 star hotel units is extremely difficult to implement in Ermoupoli due to the lack of large plots of land and high construction costs, which make investment projects unsustainable. In addition, the absence of reference to the establishment of new lower-class accommodation (3/4/5 keys) makes it difficult to restore historic buildings, which, according to engineers, exceed 400 and are in a state of abandonment or danger.
Special Offers for Ermoupolis and Poseidonia
The Association proposes the reclassification of the Municipal Unit of Ermoupolis in the developing areas and of Poseidonia in the same category, with special mention for the possibility of building accommodation in categories 3/4/5 keys and 3/4/5 stars. In addition, they are calling for regulations to be adjusted to allow existing accommodation to be expanded with fewer barriers and more flexibility.
Risk of Stagnation and Loss of Historical Heritage
The announcement warns that the classification of Ermoupolis in the control areas without the necessary incentives for tourism development may lead to stagnation and further deterioration of the historical heritage of the city. The Association emphasizes that existing buildings are “begging” for rescue and reuse, and without the appropriate legislative arrangements, this process becomes impossible.
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