By decision of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport
It is one of the largest tourist resorts in Greece and now Santorini It is in front of a major change, after earthquakes that have plagued the island for many weeks. By decision of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, the procedures for the construction of a new port are proceeding, a project that is now a top national priority. The decision has already been published in the Government Gazette, confirming the state’s commitment to solve the chronic problems of the island’s port infrastructure.
The explosive increase in tourist arrivals in recent years has made it problematic the operation of the port of Athinios, which has serious issues of congestion, security and access. The narrow road leading to the port cannot be improved for technical and environmental reasons, while increased traffic creates delays and risks. In addition, recent earthquake activity has intensified the need for modern and safe port infrastructure. The new port is expected to solve these problems by disintegrating Athinios and offering greater opportunities for safe attachment and access to the settlements of Santorini. Its construction has been entrusted to the Special Public Works and Port Infrastructure Public Works (EYDE), which will oversee the procedure of studies and auction, and will also be constructed the construction of accompanying projects in the marine and land zone.
Initially, three possible locations were examined for the location of the new port: the location west of the Vlychada fishing shelter, the area of Monolithos (north of the existing beach) and the Koloumbos location, in contact south of the Columbus farm. The local agencies, including the Municipality of Thira, submitted their views on the candidates, and the monolith position was finally proposed as a more appropriate position. The Ministry of Culture gave his positive opinion on this choice, stressing that the construction of the port at this site “will not damage the protected historical landscape of Thira”.
At the same time, ADMIE announced that the movement of part of the existing cable interconnection of Thira-Naxos and the future cable interconnection of Folegandros-Thera can be implemented under specific conditions, provided the project is located and licensed in the area.
The implementation process follows the institutional framework for public procurement (Law 4412/2016), and since October 2023 the preliminary study, the preliminary study and the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) had already been assigned. Although no specific timetable has been announced, the aim is to accelerate the procedures, with the next step being completing the studies and the announcement of the construction tenders.
Creating a new, modern port is not just a necessity, but an investment that will boost tourism and the local economy. Santorini, an international brand, is worth a port worthy of its reputation and its importance on the world tourist map.
