Greek Environment Ministry launches settlement redevelopment and water sector reforms

The Ministry of Environment and Energy announced two major reforms. First, a private‑urban‑planning framework will target abandoned villages with fewer than 150 residents, allowing development of contiguous areas of at least 50 st•res, provided the sites are architecturally interesting, geologically safe and have a functional core. Developers must fund at least half of the new built‑up area, with a quarter allocated to public spaces, and up to 15 % may be contributed as a monetary charge to the local municipality.

Second, a draft water‑law was opened for public consultation, aiming to expand the responsibilities of the state water utilities EYDAP and EYATH, integrate dozens of private providers, and set up a national water strategy. The plan includes 103 infrastructure projects in 63 municipalities, a €142 million budget, and measures to reduce water waste, improve service quality and ensure affordable, safe water for future generations.