Residents of the popular Greek tourist destination of Santorini are calling for stricter building regulations to protect their island’s unique landscape and cultural heritage.
At a recent meeting at the Bellonio Cultural Center in Fira, where the municipality hosted the presentation of the first phase of the island’s urban plan, the demand from residents was clear: less construction and more restrictions.
The reactions at the presentation were in stark contrast to those at a meeting on Mykonos a few days earlier, which was marred by acrimony and protests.
Mayor Nikos Zorzos echoed the sentiments of Santorini’s residents, stating, “Our island needs a new plan to curb irrational development.”
The proposed urban plan includes a ban on new buildings in the caldera zone and designates specific areas for tourism and recreation, such as Monolithos.
Residential construction will be limited to 12% of the island, and tourism facilities to 4.9%. Residents also called for rigorous control over tourism investments and restrictions on Airbnb rentals.
There was a strong push for the complete prohibition of construction in agricultural zones and the protection of public lands.
Additionally, they emphasized the importance of safeguarding the natural beauty and traditional character of Santorini, which are key to its appeal.
