Thessaloniki Port's 6th Berth Project Hit by Supreme Court Sand‑Extraction Order

Greece's Supreme Court accepted a suspension request from the Municipality of Thermaikos concerning sand extraction at Epano, a key step for the expansion of the Port of Thessaloniki's sixth berth. The ruling temporarily halts the dredging operation but does not resolve the overall legality of the project, which is slated for a main trial in the coming months.

The sixth‑berth expansion is promoted as a major infrastructure boost intended to raise Thessaloniki's status on international shipping routes, generate added economic value and enhance the competitiveness of the Greek economy. Opponents cite environmental risks, including the project's proximity to Natura 2000 protected zones, the sensitive Poseidonia meadows, potential water turbidity from the dredging vessel, and possible impacts on coastal fisheries, tourism and beaches.

The court decision therefore freezes sand‑extraction activities while the broader dispute over the project's environmental compliance and overall feasibility remains open.