Veria Municipal Council rejects OMYA Hellas quarry expansion

The Veria Municipal Council has voted unanimously against the Environmental Impact Study regarding the expansion of a calcium carbonate quarry operated by OMYA Hellas in the Xylalogos area of Kumaria own the Vermio mountains.

During the session, OMYA Hellas Director Konstantinos Koukougiannis argued that increasing production is necessary to meet market demand, noting that the high whiteness of the Vermio rock makes it a valuable raw material. However, local residents and representatives from the Xylirivadou Cultural Club expressed strong opposition. Vasilis Chasiotis, president of the club, criticized the environmental study as insufficient and warned that the region is already under pressure from energy installations like wind turbines and solar farms.

Veria Mayor Kostas Vorgiadidis also voiced his opposition, stating that what was once discussed as mild exploitation has evolved into intensive activity. While the council's negative opinion is a significant local step, the final decision will be determined at higher administrative levels. The municipality has indicated it will continue to fight against the installation alongside local organizations.