Greece is preparing to introduce a new tourism planning framework that will impose stricter development rules on many islands while encouraging sustainable growth in less-developed areas.
The updated Special Spatial Planning Framework for Tourism, set to be presented by Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni and Environment Minister Stavros Papastavrou, divides islands into categories based on tourism pressure and infrastructure capacity, according to tovima.com
Under the proposal, areas considered saturated by overtourism will face strict limits on new tourist accommodations. In these “Controlled Development Areas” (Category A), new hotels will likely be capped at 75 beds, though discussions continue over a possible increase to 100. In “Developing Areas” (Category B), projects with up to 350 beds may be approved.
The framework creates different development rules even within the same island. On Corfu, for example, Corfu Town will face tighter restrictions, while districts such as Faiakes and Agios Georgios could allow larger hotel projects. Zakynthos will also be divided into zones with varying limits and investment conditions.
Popular destinations including Mykonos, Santorini, Skiathos and parts of Rhodes, Crete and Kos are classified as saturated and will face the strictest controls.
The plan also focuses on sustainability, offering incentives to upgrade existing accommodations and promote environmentally friendly tourism models such as glamping. New tourism levies are also being considered to fund infrastructure and urban improvements.
Additionally, the proposal includes a ban on construction or landscaping within 25 meters of Greece’s shoreline to better protect coastal areas.
Source: tovima.com
